Method 306B

Surface tension measurement for tanks used at decorative Chromium electroplating and Chromium anodizing facilities

During an electroplating or anodizing operation, gas bubbles generated during the process rise to the surface of the liquid and burst. Upon bursting, tiny droplets of chromic acid become entrained in ambient air. The addition of a wetting agent to the tank bath reduces the surface tension of the liquid and diminishes the formation of these droplets.

This method determines the surface tension of the bath using a stalagmometer or a tensiometer to confirm that there is sufficient wetting agent present.