The Effect of Electrolyte Type and Electrode Size on the

Efficiency of Copper Electroplating onto Brass

Rachelle Buna and Frosilda Pushani
Macomb Mathematics Science and Technology Center
Chemistry / Interdisciplinary Studies 2 / FST 10B
Mrs. Hilliard, Mrs. Supal, Mrs. Dewey
21 May 2015

Table of Contents
Introduction..............................................................................................................1
Review of Literature................................................................................................4
Problem Statement.................................................................................................11
Experimental Design..............................................................................................12
Data and Observations...........................................................................................15
Data Analysis and Interpretation............................................................................21
Conclusion.............................................................................................................27
Appendix A: Calculator Randomization................................................................33
Appendix B: Preparing Electrolyte Solutions........................................................34
Works Cited............................................................................................................35

Buna - Pushani 1
Introduction
A U.S. penny is made of zinc with a 20 microns thick layer of copper on its
surface. Unfortunately it costs more than a penny to make a penny. However, with a
process called electroplating, the price of producing items decreases while the quality of
the item increases. The process of electroplating, which in simple terms involves using an
electrical charge to attach a thin metal layer or coating onto an object such as an
industrial part, is not new. For decades, electroplating, since its invention in 1805 by the
Italian inventor Luigi Brugnatelli, has benefited many industries in increasing the
durability or improving the appearance of a plated piece. Some industries that use
electroplating today include the electronic, automotive, defense, and aerospace industries.
The objective in this experiment was to explore which combination of factors,
solution type and electrode size, would produce the most efficient method of copper
electroplating. Using prior experiments and research on the topic, a new and effective
experiment was developed in order to analyze certain factors that affect the electroplating
process. Copper electroplating was chosen because many companies utilize copper as a
metal for electroplating. This is because copper contains various benefits. Key copper
electroplating benefits include corrosion protection properties, high thickness build, and
heat treatment stop-off all while maintaining a lightweight and fairly cheap cost. They
would help prevent the metal from wearing out while giving it a thick coating and
controlling the surface hardening of the metal. These properties would be principle in
achieving a high quality coating of the metal used to plate items. This would give it the
same characteristics as if using the actual metal. In many circuits and circuit boards, brass
is plated with a thin coating of copper to achieve these properties. For the experiment,
distinct electrolytic cells were carefully designed and created with varying factors of

Buna - Pushani 2
solution and electrode size. The electrodes were connected to a DC ammeter and
submerged into an electrolytic solution for five minutes. The difference in the mass of
each electrode was calculated in order to determine how much copper was electroplated
onto the brass. The results for the cells were analyzed individually and collectively to
determine the best electrolytic cell design. This method was chosen because it provided
an easy yet reliable method for determining the mass of copper electroplated.
Electroplating copper can be valuable in applications such as the
manufacturing of goods used in electronic, automotive, defense, and aerospace industries
to help improve the quality of a metal and prevent it from undergoing corrosion by
building a protective barrier all the while retaining a high quality. Copper is widely used
for plating metal onto plastics and other non-metallic surfaces. Electroplating is
frequently used to refurbish old automobile parts such as bumpers, grills and tire rims to
help make them look brand new. Electroplating on plastic is also used for chrome-plating
the lightweight but sturdy parts of the modern automobile. Electroplating helps improve
the appearance of a metal for a cheaper cost while maintaining the same, if not better,
quality standard.
The industrial use of electroplating is also widely chosen in businesses when
protection against corrosion is necessary to prevent the premature quietus of a metal. For
example, nickel plating, tin plating and various alloy platings are all commonly used for
corrosion protection on nuts, bolts, housings, brackets, and many other metal
components. Silver electroplating is often used on copper or brass connectors due to its
superior conductivity. Gold electroplating also provides high quality corrosion and
tarnish protection, although it is more expensive than other plating processes.
Electroplating gold as opposed to other types of metals is more expensive due to its

Buna - Pushani 3
relative scarcity and exceptionally high value. Other precious metals such as gold and
palladium plating are commonly used in the telecommunications industry.
This research is applied to real world benefits. Electroplating is an inexpensive
and efficient way to increase the life of a metal and prevent it from undergoing corrosion.
Many industries use this process of metal coating due to the fact that a solid piece of the
specific metal they want coated is much more expensive than the simple coating.
Utilizing the most efficient method of electroplating would save a company resources and
time, thus saving money for both the producers and consumers.

Review of Literature

Buna - Pushani 4
Electrochemistry is the study of electricity and how it relates to chemical
reactions. A branch of electrochemistry is electroplating. Electroplating is the process of
coating a metal object with a thin layer of another metal through a process called
electrolysis. Electroplating is used in various industries to improve the appearance and
quality of a metal. Car and jewelry industries are big users of this process of metal
coating due to the fact that a solid piece of the specific metal they want coated is much
more expensive than the simple coating. When industries electroplate, they obtain a
specific quality they look for in that metal through the coating instead of the full piece of
metal; this process helps conserve money. For example, chrome trims on automobiles are
plated with chromium steel, which is a metal that creates a corrosion-resistant surface.
Jewelry is often plated with silver and gold to improve its outer appearance. Specific
types of metals such as tin and zinc can also be plated with gold to help create a
protective outer layer. Even food containers are often tin plated to reduce their
corrosiveness. Electroplating is an inexpensive and efficient way to increase the life of a
metal and prevent it from undergoing corrosion ("Electroplating.").
The process through which electroplating occurs is called electrolysis. This is a
process in which an electric current is sent through an electrolyte (solution). This
stimulates the flow of ions that are necessary to run an otherwise non-spontaneous
reaction. An electrolyte is a substance that ionizes when dissolved in suitable ionizing
solvents that are polar such as water. This includes most soluble salts, acids, and bases.
Some gases, such as hydrogen chloride, HCl under conditions of high temperatures or
low pressures, can also function as electrolytes ("Electrolyte.").

Buna - Pushani 5
Electroplating, the coating of one metal to another, occurs through an electrolytic cell.
An electrolytic cell is an electrochemical cell that undergoes a redox reaction.
Electroplating begins by filling a container with the electrolyte of a salt of the metal that
is to form the coating. For example, if copper is to form the coating, the electrolyte will
consist of copper (II) sulfate, CuSO4 (a salt of copper) mixed with water. An electrode
composed either of the metal that is to form the coating or of a metal that is not affected
by the electrolyte, is also immersed in the bath. The entire apparatus is called an
electrolytic cell ("Electroplating.). Figure 1 below is an example of an electrolytic cell
(Hilliard).
c e-

Figure 1. The Electrolytic Cell

Figure 1 is an example of an electrolytic cell. In it, an anode and cathode are
placed into a copper sulfate electrolyte. The current from the DC source is traveling in the
opposite direction of the movement of electrons in the redox reaction. The electrons flow
from the anode to the cathode; therefore, the current travels the direct opposite way.

Buna - Pushani 6
The electrodes, which are immersed in the electrolyte, are conductors through which
electricity either enters or leaves. The electrode is connected to the negative terminal of
an electric battery or other source of direct current, and becomes the cathode (the
electrode through which negative charge enters an electrical device). The electrode is
connected to the positive terminal of the electric power source and becomes the anode
(the electrode through which negative charge leaves)("Galvanic and Electrolytic Cells.")
("Electroplating.).
In the process of electroplating, the electrons undergo a redox reaction. Redox
reactions are reactions in which one species is reduced and another is oxidized. The
anode, or the positively charged electrode by which the electrons leave, undergoes an
oxidation. The cathode, or the negatively charged electrode by which electrons enter,
undergoes a reduction. A half reaction is either the oxidation or reduction reaction
component of a redox reaction. See Figure 2 below for two half reactions in a redox
reaction ("Redox Reactions.").
Oxidation

Cu(s) ----> Cu2+(aq)+ 2e-

Reduction

Cu2+(aq)+ 2e- ----> Cu(s)

Figure 2. Half Reaction Equations

Figure 2 above displays the reaction between the electrons and the metal
electrodes through half reaction equations. The oxidation equation shows how the solid
copper electrode is oxidized into and aqueous copper ion and two electrons in the
electrolyte solution. The reduction equations show the reversal, or how the electrons
reduce the aqueous copper ion into a solid again.

Buna - Pushani 7
An oxidation-reduction reaction is also another name for a redox reaction. When an
electrode oxidizes, it goes through a process in which an atom loses an electron and
therefore increases its oxidation number. In other words, the positive character of the
species is increased. When an electrode reduces, it goes through a process in which an
atom gains an electron and therefore decreases (or reduces its oxidation number). The
positive character of the species is reduced. ("Redox Reactions.") Figure 3 below is a
more detailed diagram also noting the oxidation and reduction half reactions ("Electro:
Electricity Lysis:break down.").

Figure 3. Oxidation and Reduction Half Reactions in Experiment

Figure 3 above displays an electrolytic cell and the basic parts to it. A source,
cathode, anode, and electrolyte are shown. Note the oxidation half reactions. The cathode
is being reduced (gaining electrons), as the anode is being oxidized (losing electrons).
The process of electroplating can be used to figure out many different types of
things. It can be used to figure out how the changing of currents, electrode sizes,
electrolytes, and molarity affects the electroplating of a specific metal. It can also figure
out the industrial electrolytic refining of different types of metals, and it can even be used

Buna - Pushani 8
to figure out how gap distances affect the thickness of the plating of a metal. Various
experiments have been conducted using electroplating for these alternating purposes.
One example of this was an experiment where the changing of currents was tested
to see the affects on the electroplating of copper. In this experiment two terminals of the
circuit were connected. A carbon anode was attached to the positive terminal of the
circuit and a carbon cathode was attached to the negative terminal of the circuit. Forty
milliliters of copper (II) sulfate at 1.00 molarity was then poured into a beaker. The anode
and the cathode were then lowered into the beaker as well with the masses of each being
recorded. A different current was then run through the terminals each time; 0.2A, 0.3A,
0.4A, 0.5A, 0.6A, 0.7A, and 1.0A were the different currents run throughout the
terminals. The cathodes and anodes were then weighed again and the new masses were
subtracted from the old masses. The greatest difference in mass had a higher effect on the
copper electroplating and the lesser difference in mass had a lower effect on the copper
electroplating ("Electroplating Experiment:: Papers.") The part of this experiment used in
the researchers experiment was the constant molarity of 1.00 M and the idea of plating
copper onto a cathode of a different type of metal. The cathode used in this experiment
carbon but the one used in the researchers experiment was brass. Brass was chosen
because it is frequently used in the world, making the experiment relatable to real life.
Another experiment the researchers came across was of the electrolysis of copper
(II) sulfate (about 0.5 M, 200 cm3). A DC power source (6 volt) was used to run a current
through the cathode and anode. A light bulb (small, 6 volt, 5 watt) was included in the
circuit to indicate that there was a flow of current. Strips of copper were used as the
electrodes. The DC power source was then turned on and the experimenters viewed the

Buna - Pushani 9
process of electroplating. The electrolysis was done using two weighed copper strips.
This was to confirm that the mass gained at the cathode was equal to the mass loss at the
anode. In the end, the experimenters made observations of the electrolytic refining of
copper ("Electrolysis of Copper (II) Sulfate Solution.").
A third experiment was an experiment where the distance in gaps between the
electrodes was tested to find its affect on the thickness of the plating of nickel. For the
nickel deposition, an electroplating solution (Nickel (II) Chloride) was used. Two pure
nickel round plates of 20millimeters diameter 3millimeters thickness were used as
anodes. The cathode was the thin sample previously cut (5millimeter diameter 2.05
millimeters thick), which was fixed at distinct distances from each anode. The nickel
coating thickness and interface were characterized by scanning electron microscope
(SEM). The layer thickness variation (k) between the substrate face and its circumference
was calculated using the formula

(coating thickness on surfacecoating thickness on circumfere nce) x

k=
(coating thickness on surface)1 x 100
Figure 4. Equation Used in Example Experiment
This equation above shows how the coating of the nickel was measured.
("Quantitative Analysis of Electroplated Nickel Coating on Hard Metal.")
The researchers experiment differs from those of the three experiments above for
a number of reasons. For one, the effects of different electrolytes and electrode sizes on
the electroplating of copper were tested. In this experiment two terminals of the circuit

Buna - Pushani 10
were connected just like in the experiments above. A copper anode was attached to the
positive terminal of the circuit and a brass cathode was attached to the negative terminal
of the circuit. An electrolyte solution (copper sulfate) was then poured into a petri dish
with the anode and the cathode lowered into the petri dish as well. The initial mass of the
electrodes were recorded and after a current was run through the terminal, the new mass
was recorded and subtracted from the initial mass. Different combinations of electrolytes
and electrode sizes were tested together with the same repeating steps. The combination
with the greatest difference in mass was the combination that had the greatest effect on
the electroplating of copper. The combination with the least difference in mass was the
combination that had the least effect on the electroplating of copper. This is because the
greater difference in mass meant a greater thickness, or coating of electroplating. The
experiment ran by the researchers was developed through ideas of previous experiments
as those previously mentioned. The idea of plating a metal on to another was chosen;
copper seemed to be used frequently, so it was chosen as the anode. Brass was chosen as
the cathode through research based on uses today. The experiments above influenced the
researchers by carrying out the electroplating through an electrolytic cell instead of a
voltaic cell. This is because a DC power source was used throughout every researched
experiment. Overall, the process of electroplating is all very similar. Through research,
the solution types and electrode sizes were used as factors to observe the effect they have
on the electroplating of copper onto brass.

Buna - Pushani 11

Problem Statement
Problem:
The purpose of this experiment was to determine which solution type copper (II)
sulfate, CuSO4, copper (II) acetate, Cu(C2H3O2)2, copper (II) chloride, CuCl2 and
electrode sizes (height x width) 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm, 1.0 cm x 1.0 cm, 0.5 cm x 0.5 cm will
have the greatest effect on the efficiency of copper electroplating.
Hypothesis:
During the process of copper electroplating, copper (II) sulfate, CuSO4 and the
electrode size of 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm will have the greatest effect in the difference of mass
(grams) between the electrodes before and after electroplating, providing the most
efficient method of copper electroplating.
Data Measured:
The constants of this experiment were the molarity (M) of the electrolytes kept at
1.00 M, the volume of the electrolytes kept at 40 ml, and the voltage (V) at 12 V
generated from the DC ammeter. The independent variables of this experiment were the
types of electrolytes copper (II) sulfate, CuSO4, copper (II) acetate, Cu(C2H3O2)2, copper
(II) chloride, CuCl2 measured in molarity and volume and the various electrode
sizes(height x width) 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm, 1.0 cm x 1.0 cm, 0.5 cm x 0.5 cm. The
dependent variable was the difference in mass of the electrodes in grams before and after
electroplating. The initial mass of the electrodes was subtracted from the final mass. To
analyze and test the significance of this data, a two-factor design of experiment (DOE)

Buna - Pushani 12
was used to compare the effects of the different types of electrolytes and electrode sizes
on the difference in mass of the electrodes.
Experimental Design
Materials:
(1) Brass (12 x 12 x 0.025) sheet
(1) Copper (12 x 6 x 0.025) sheet
Steel wool
(3) Petri dish (100 mm x 15 mm)
(3) 500 ml beaker
50 ml Graduated Cylinder
Tongs
Balance (0.0001 g)
DC Ammeter (Extech Digital DC
Power Supply)
Electrical wires with alligator clips
Tin Snips

Distilled water (2 gal)

Market Pantry White Distilled
Vinegar (16 oz)
Sodium chloride, NaCl (3 g)
1.00 M Copper (II) Sulfate (CuSO4)
electrolyte solution (500 ml)
1.00 M Copper (II) Acetate
(Cu(C2H3O2)2) electrolyte
solution (500 ml)
1.00 M Copper (II) Chloride (CuCl2)
electrolyte solution (500 ml)

Buna Pushani 13

Procedures:
1.

Randomize the DOE trials (see Appendix A).

2.

Cut brass and copper strips at the specified length called for according to the DOE
trial specifications (cm) (1.5 x1.5, 1.0x1.0, or 0.5x 0.5) using the tin snips.
Be careful with the sharp metal. Clean the brass piece and the copper piece by
scrubbing lightly with steel wool.

3.

Mix 3 g sodium chloride (NaCl) with 15 mL of vinegar in a 500 mL beaker, only

if solution is not already made. Wash both the copper piece and the brass piece
with this solution by scrubbing again lightly. Rinse metals with distilled water and
dry. From this point on until disposal, only touch metals using clean metal tongs.

4.

Once the metals are clean and dry, measure and record the mass of each the
copper and the brass pieces separately using the precision scale and record in data
table.

5.

Measuring accurately using the graduated cylinder, pour 40 ml of the specific

electrolyte solution into petri dish. Electrolyte solution is based upon selected
DOE trial (see Appendix B on how to prepare each solution).

6.

Plug in and set the DC Ammeter (Extech Digital DC Power Supply) to the
specific voltage called for (12V). Connect the alligator clips and set aside with
easy access for later.

7.

Connect alligator wires to anode (brass and negative terminal) and cathode
(copper and positive terminal) respectively. Make sure the anode and cathode are
connected to the correct terminals of the power source (Figure 6).

8.

Submerge anode and cathode into electrolyte solution at opposite end of the petri
dish. Make sure as much as possible of the metal pieces are submerged in the
solution. The alligator clips can be attached to the petri dish, pinching the metal to
the sidewall. Do not submerge the clips into the electrolyte solution (Figure 6).

9.

Turn on the DC Ammeter. After 5 minutes, turn off power source and pull
alligator clips with metal pieces from electrolyte solution. Remove alligator clips
from electrodes.

10.

Rinse the electrodes with distilled water and dry. Measure and record the mass of
each individual metal piece.

11.

Dispose of electrolyte solution as directed according to MSDS sheet for specific

chemical. Clean the petri dish and the alligator clips with distilled water also.

12.

Repeat steps 2-10 for each DOE trial run each day.

Buna Pushani 14
Diagram:

Figure 5. Materials Used

Figure 5 above shows all of the materials used throughout this experiment. The
electrodes, electrolytes and DC ammeter were the main materials used.

Buna Pushani 15

Factors
Solution
Electrode Size (cm)

Standard

1.0 M

1.0 M
Cu(C2H3O2)2
1.0 x 1.0

1.0 M
CuCl2
0.5 x 0.5

CuSO4
1.5 x 1.5

Figure 6. Experimental Setup

Figure 6 above shows the setup for the electroplating portion of the experiment.
As clearly seen above, the electrodes, copper and brass pieces, are submerged in the
electrolyte solution and connected to the power source. The reaction will run for about 5
minutes.

Data and Observations

Table 1
DOE Independent Factors and Levels

Table 1 above shows the independent factors of this experiment. Solutions of

copper II sulfate, (CuSO4), copper II acetate, (Cu(C2H3O2)2), and copper II chloride,
(CuCl2), were ordered based on their charges once ionized. The electrode size refers to
the size of each the copper and the brass electrode. The lengths in Table 1 refer to the

Buna Pushani 16
height and width the metals were cut in centimeters. Voltage of the DC ammeter and
molarity of the solutions remained constant throughout the experiment as 1.00 M and
12V, respectively.
Table 2
DOE Trial 1

Order
1
6
5
4
3
2
7

Runs
Standar
d
++
-Standar
d
+-+
Standar
d

Copper Electrode Mass

(g)
Initial
Final
Mass

Brass Electrode Mass

(g)
Initial
Final
Mass

0.5351

0.5325

-0.0026

0.4963

0.501

0.0047

1.4226
0.1489

1.4083
0.1476

-0.0143
-0.0013

1.2687
0.1573

1.2831
0.1602

0.0144
0.0029

0.5362

0.5343

-0.0019

0.5294

0.5329

0.0035

0.1715
1.3988

0.1612
1.3916

-0.0103
-0.0072

0.1539
1.2411

0.1568
1.2522

0.0029
0.0111

0.4892

0.4869

-0.0023

0.5146

0.5178

0.0032

Table 2 above shows the raw data collected during the DOE. The change in mass
of the electrodes was calculated after each trial. This change in mass was calculated by
subtracting the final mass from the initial mass. It is important to note, as seen above, that
each trial included the copper electrode losing mass and the brass electrode gaining mass.
The change in mass of the brass electrode was used to determine the effect of each factor.
Table 3
DOE 1 Observations
Trial
Observations
The copper acetate was a clear blue liquid that had loose particles floating on top
of the solution due to the fact that it did not completely dissolve in the water
1
even when it was heated three minutes prior to using. It was also cooled down so
that the heat factor would not interfere with the data. This was a successful trial
however the copper plated brass electrode had a purple tint.
The copper chloride was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution due to the fact that it dissolved completely in the water when heated
2
and stirred. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
having a pink tint in the middle.
3
The copper sulfate was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution due to the fact that it dissolved completely in the water when heated
and stirred. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
having an orange tint. The copper electrode had yellow pigment floating around

Buna Pushani 17

at the bottom of the solution that had fallen off.

The copper acetate was a clear blue liquid that had loose particles floating on top
of the solution in clusters. It was heated and cooled down so that the heat factor
would not interfere with the data. This was a successful trial however the copper
plated brass electrode had a purple tint to it and the copper electrode had a blue
tint to it.
The copper chloride was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
having an orange tint.
The copper sulfate was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
having an orange tint. The difference in mass for the copper electrode and the
brass electrode is almost completely equal.
The copper acetate was a clear blue liquid that had loose particles floating on top
of the solution in clusters. It was heated and cooled down so that the heat factor
would not interfere with the data. This was a successful trial however the copper
plated brass electrode had a purple tint and the copper electrode had a blue tint to
it.
Table 3 above shows the observations made through DOE trial 1 (Table 2).

Table 4
DOE Trial 2
Copper Electrode Mass
(g)
Orde
r
1
3
5
4
6
2
7

Runs
Standar
d
++
-Standar
d
+-+
Standar
d

Brass Electrode Mass

(g)

Initial

Final

Mass

Initial

Final

Mass

0.591

0.5876

-0.0034

0.5503

0.5534

0.0031

1.3515
0.1233

1.3365
0.1212

-0.015
-0.0021

1.152
0.1604

1.1633
0.1614

0.0113
0.001

0.5884

0.5875

-0.0009

0.5283

0.5323

0.004

0.1389
1.3822

0.1331
1.3781

-0.0058
-0.0041

0.1479
1.1182

0.1492
1.1318

0.0013
0.0136

0.5352

0.5323

-0.0029

0.5229

0.5251

0.0022

Buna Pushani 18
Table 4 above shows the raw data collected during another DOE. The change in
mass of the electrodes was calculated after each trial. This change in mass was calculated
by subtracting the final mass from the initial mass. Each trial included the copper
electrode losing mass and the brass electrode gaining mass. The change in mass of the
brass electrode was used to determine the effect of each factor.
Table 5
DOE 2 Observations
Trial
Observations

The copper acetate was a clear blue liquid that had loose particles floating on top
of the solution. It was heated and cooled down so that the heat factor would not
interfere with the data. This was a successful trial however the copper plated
brass electrode had a purple and blue tint to it and the copper electrode had a
yellow blue tint to it.

The copper chloride was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
having a white tint to it and the copper electrode having a matte finish.

4
Trial
5

The copper sulfate was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
having a dark tint to it on the ends and the copper having a gold tint to it on the
ends of the electrode in the middle.
The copper acetate was a clear blue liquid that had loose particles floating on top
of the solution. It was heated and cooled down so that the heat factor would not
interfere with the data. This was a successful trial however the copper plated
brass electrode had a purple tint and the copper electrode had a blue tint to it.
Observations
The copper chloride was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
having a pink tint to it and the copper electrode having a matte finishing to it.
The copper sulfate was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
having a dark copper color to it and the copper electrode having a yellow tint to
it.
The copper acetate was a clear blue liquid that had loose particles floating on top
of the solution. It was heated and cooled down so that the heat factor would not
interfere with the data. This was a successful trial however the copper plated
brass electrode had a purple tint to it and the copper electrode had a blue tint to
it.
Table 5 above shows the observations made through DOE trial 2 (Table 4).

Buna Pushani 19

Table 6
DOE Trial 3

Order
1
5
2
4
3
6
7

Runs
Standard
++
-Standard
+-+
Standard

Copper Electrode Mass

(g)
Initial
Final
Mass
0.5482
0.5479
-0.0003
1.505
1.4916
-0.0134
0.1404
0.1387
-0.0017
0.5511
0.5487
-0.0024
0.1412
0.1369
-0.0043
1.2823
1.2788
-0.0035
0.6279
0.6262
-0.0017

Brass Electrode Mass

(g)
Initial
Final
Mass
0.5137
0.5175
0.0038
1.2091
1.2224
0.0133
0.1282
0.1296
0.0014
0.4826
0.4862
0.0036
0.1494
0.1524
0.003
1.1948
1.2049
0.0101
0.5167
0.5208
0.0041

Table 6 above shows the raw data collected during another DOE. The change in
mass of the electrodes was calculated after each trial. This change in mass was calculated
by subtracting the final mass from the initial mass. Each trial included the copper
electrode losing mass and the brass electrode gaining mass. The change in mass of the
brass electrode was used to determine the effect of each factor.

Table 7
DOE 3 Observations
Trial
Observations
The copper acetate was a clear blue liquid that had loose particles floating on
top of the solution. It was heated and cooled down so that the heat factor would
1
not interfere with the data. This was a successful trial however the copper
plated brass electrode had a purple tint to it and the copper electrode had a blue
tint to it.
The copper chloride was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
2
having a pink tint to it. However some of the copper coating fell off in the
solution when the electrode was removed from the electrolyte.
The copper sulfate was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with copper coating on the brass and
3
the copper electrode having a gold tint to it. However some of the copper
coating fell off in the solution when the electrode was removed from the
electrolyte.
4
The copper acetate was a clear blue liquid that had loose particles floating on

Buna Pushani 20

top of the solution. It was heated and cooled down so that the heat factor would
not interfere with the data. The solution was also reused from trial one in the
D.O.E. due to the fact that there was a shortage in solution type and no other
way to prepare more. This was a successful trial however the copper plated
brass electrode had a purple tint to it and the copper electrode had a blue tint to
it. The timer in this trial was also stopped seven seconds too late.
The copper sulfate was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
being thick and dark and the copper electrode having a matte finish to it with
orange tints on the ends.
The copper chloride was a clear blue liquid that had no loose particles on top of
the solution. This was a successful trial with the copper coating on the brass
having a white tint in the middle of the coating. The copper electrode had an
orange matte finish to it.
The copper acetate was a clear blue liquid that had loose particles floating on
top of the solution. It was heated and cooled down so that the heat factor would
not interfere with the data. The solution was also reused from trial one in the
D.O.E. due to the fact that there was a shortage in solution type and no other
way to prepare more. This was a successful trial however the copper plated
brass electrode had a purple tint to it and the copper electrode had a blue tint to
it.
Table 7 above shows the observations made through DOE trial 3 (Table 6).

Copper Electrode

Copper plated Brass

Electrode

Figure 7. Successful Trial

Figure 7 above shows the metal pieces after they have been electroplated
successfully. The metal on the top is the copper and the metal at the bottom is the copper
plated brass. This trial was a result of the copper II sulfate solution and largest electrodes.

Buna Pushani 21

Data Analysis and Interpretation

To determine the most efficient method of electroplating, an experiment was
conducted testing the effect of solution type and electrode size on copper electroplating.
It was predicted that if CuSO4 and the electrode size of 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm were used, this
would have the greatest effect on the difference in mass (g) of the brass electrode before
and after electroplating. To analyze the data, a two-factor design of experiment or DOE
was used. This test was deemed appropriate because the researchers considered such
factors influential on the amount of copper plated onto the brass; two variables were
tested to see if they significantly effected copper electroplating. A DOE tests the effect of
variables in an experiment; thus, it makes logical sense to analyze the data to determine
an effect of solution type and electrode size on the difference in mass of brass using a
DOE.
To make the results of the experiment as valid as possible, the basics for a good
statistical experiment were utilized: control, randomization, and repetition. The control
group (standard) was used to help reduce the effect of lurking variables. In the case of a
DOE, a group of standards with common results help to show trendless data and provide
evidence that trials ran properly. Randomization of the trials helps to lessen the effect of

Buna Pushani 22
+

Standard

2.0 M

CuSO4

1.0 M
Cu(C2H3O2)2

1.0 M
CuCl2

1.5 x 1.5

1.0 x 1.0

0.5 x 0.5

Factors
Solution
Electrode Size (cm)

bias, or the systematic

favoring of one outcome
over another. This reduces

bias because the researchers are less likely to develop a routine or target a certain value
for a trial. Repetition was also utilized. Each combination of solution type and electrode
size was tested three times to prove that the data collected were both factual and not
biased. These three basics made the experiment reliable, not biased, and reduced the
effect of lurking variables.
Table 8
DOE Independent Factors and Levels

Table 8 above shows the independent factors of this experiment. Solutions of

copper II sulfate, (CuSO4), copper II acetate, (Cu(C2H3O2)2), and copper II chloride,
(CuCl2), were ordered based on their charges once ionized. The electrode size refers to
the size of each the copper and the brass electrode. The lengths in Table 8 refer to the
height and width the metals were cut in centimeters. Voltage of the DC ammeter and
molarity of the solutions remained constant throughout the experiment as 1.00 M and
12V, respectively.
Table 9
DOE Results and Averages
Runs
First DOE
Electrode
Solution
Size
+
+
0.0144

Second DOE

Third DOE

Average

0.0113

0.0133

0.0130

Buna Pushani 23
+
-

Solution Type
0.0029
0.001
0.0014
0.0018
(-)
(+)
0.0029
0.0013
0.003
0.0024
0.0018
0.0130
0.0111
0.0136
0.0101
0.0116
0.0116
0.0024
Average Grand
= 0.0067
Average = 0.0077
Average
0.0072
Table 9 above displays the data for all the trials (excluding the standard trials) and
+

their averages. To analyze the data using a two-factor DOE, the averages were used.

0.01
0.01
Difference in Mass of Brass (g)

Type of Solution (CuCl2, CuSO4)

Table 10
Effect of Solution Type

Figure 8. Effect of Solution Type

Figure 8 and Table 10 above show the correlation between the solution type and
the amount of copper plated. Because two different solutions were used, the researchers
can determine that copper II sulfate was a better, or more efficient plating electrolyte than

Buna Pushani 24
its counterpart of copper II sulfate. On average, the amount of copper plated onto brass
increased by 0.0010 grams as the solution changed from low, CuCl2 to high, CuSO4.

0.01

Table 11
Effect of Electrode Size
Electrode Size
(-)
(+)
0.0018
0.0130
0.0024
0.0116
Average = 0.0021 Average = 0.0123

Figure 9. Effect of Electrode Size

Figure 9 and Table 11 above display the association between electrode size and
the amount of copper plated onto brass. Because two different electrode sizes were used,
the researchers can determine that the larger electrode (1.5 cm X 1.5 cm) was a better, or
more efficient plating electrode than its counterpart of the small electrode (0.5 cm x 0.5
cm). The effect suggests that on average, as the size of the electrode increased, the
amount of copper plated onto brass increased by 0.0102 grams.

Buna Pushani 25

Solution

Electrode
Size

(-)
CuCl2

(+)
CuSO4

Blue
(+)
0.0024
Segment

0.0130

Red
Segment

0.0116

(-)

0.0018

0.01
0.01

0
0
1.0

-1.0

Interaction Effect Between Solution Type and Electrode Size

Table 12
Interaction Effect of Solution Type
and Electrode Size

Figure 10. Interaction Effect of Solution Type and Electrode Size

Figure 10 and Table 12 above show the interaction between solution type and
electrode size on the amount of copper plated on brass. Table 4 shows the blue segment is

Buna Pushani 26
the high value for electrode size with both low and high values for type of solution on the
horizontal axis. The red segment is the low value for electrode size with low and high
values for the type of solution. Shown on the graph, when the electrode size was high and
type of solution was CuSO4 (high), the average amount of copper plated was the greatest.
The interaction effect for this combination is 0.0004; this is not quite large, but may
indicate a slight interaction between the two variables.

Buna Pushani 27
0.0140
0.0120
0.0100
0.0080
Difference in Mass of Brass (g) 0.0060
0.0040
0.0020
0.0000
13579
02468
Trial Number

Figure 11. Graph of Standards

Figure 11 above displays the graph of the standard trials. These trials are
presented in a way that helped the researchers determine if the data was consistent. The
maximum standard trial was recorded at 0.0047 grams, and the minimum at 0.0022
grams, which produces a range of 0.0025 grams. As seen above, there is no trend present
and the small range of data indicates little variability in the experiment; this supports
reliable results.
ST& ES

ST

ES

Buna Pushani 28

Figure 12. Dot Plot of Effects

Figure 12 above displays the dot plot of effects. Each individual factor and
interaction factor are noted with their abbreviation: solution type (ST) and electrode size
(ES). This chart conveys which factors are deemed significant. Significant factors must
be greater than two times the absolute value of the range of standards, which was 0.0025
grams, so 0.0050 grams (dashed lines in the graph). Therefore the factors of solution type
and the interaction effect of solution type and electrode size were deemed insignificant.
The only significant factor was the effect of the electrode size.

Y =0.0072+

0 .0102
( ES)+noise
2

Figure 13. Parsimonious Prediction Equation

Displayed above is the parsimonious prediction equation. This equation accounts
for the grand average (0.0072 grams), significant effects (the effect of the electrode size),
and noise.

Buna Pushani 29

Conclusion
The objective of this experiment was to determine which combination of solution
type and electrode size would produce the most efficient method of copper electroplating
onto brass. After using a two-factor DOE (Design of Experiment) to analyze the data, it
was revealed that the optimal combination to produce the most efficient method of copper
electroplating was the copper II sulfate (CuSO4) electrolyte and an electrode size of
1.5cm x 1.5cm (+,+). This resulted in the acceptance of the hypothesis that the
electrolytic cell with the copper II sulfate (CuSO4) electrolyte and the largest electrode
size (+,+), would have the greatest difference in mass of copper plated onto the brass

Buna Pushani 30
before and after electroplating. An in-depth analysis of the data provided evidence that
the results of this experiment were conclusive.
When the experiment was conducted, the anode (copper) and cathode (brass) were
placed into an electrolyte to form an electrolytic cell. The current from the DC ammeter
traveled in the opposite direction of the movement of electrons in the redox reaction. The
electrons flowed from the anode to the cathode; therefore, the current traveled the direct
opposite way. The electrodes, which were immersed in the electrolyte, are conductors
through which electricity either enters or leaves. The electrode connected to the negative
terminal of the electric battery became the cathode (the electrode through which negative
charge enters an electrical device). The electrode connected to the positive terminal of the
electric power source became the anode (the electrode through which negative charge
leaves). In the process of electroplating, the electrons underwent a redox reaction. Redox
reactions are reactions in which one species is reduced and another is oxidized. When an
electrode oxidizes, it goes through a process in which an atom loses an electron and
therefore increases its oxidation number. In this experiment, the copper lost electrons and
therefore oxidized. When an electrode reduces, it goes through a process in which an
atom gains an electron and therefore decreases (or reduces its oxidation number). In this
experiment, the brass gained electrons and therefore reduced. The amount of electrons
and mass lost by the copper is the same as the amount of electrons and mass gained by
brass.
Each of the factors, solution type and electrode size, were analyzed individually to
reveal their overall effect on the difference in mass of copper plated onto brass. The effect
of solution type on the mass of copper electroplated was an increase of 0.0010 grams as
the solution changed from copper II chloride (CuCl2) to copper II sulfate (CuSO4). These

Buna Pushani 31
results supported the research on types of solutions used for electroplating. Once ionized,
copper II sulfate would have the greatest differential in charge (copper II sulfate would
ionize into Cu2+ and SO42-), thus attracting electrons and plating the easiest. When the DC
ammeter is turned on, copper sulfate solution splits into ions. Copper ions (which are
positively charged) are attracted to the negatively charged brass electrode and slowly
deposit on it producing a thin layer of copper plate. Meanwhile, sulfate ions (which are
negatively charged) arrive at the positively charged copper anode, releasing electrons that
move through the DC ammeter toward the negative, brass electrode. The more electrons
mean the faster and increase in copper plating.
The effect of electrode size on the difference in mass of copper electroplated onto
brass was an increase of 0.0102 grams as the electrode size increased from 0.5cm x
0.5cm to 1.5cm x 1.5cm. With this data, it was concluded that with more surface area of
copper available, more copper could be plated onto the brass. This is because the copper
ions have more surface area to attract to from the negative, brass electrode, meaning that
a smaller surface area would not allow as much copper to be plated. In the experiment,
when the smallest electrodes were used, minimal copper was plated and much of it
scrapped off and fell into the electrolyte because of the lack of attraction.
As for the interaction of the factors, the interaction of solution type and electrode
size had a positive effect of 0.0004 grams. This meant that a larger differential in charge,
resulting from change in solution type, had a greater influence on the increase in mass of
the copper that was plated, which was also a result of increasing the electrode size.
However, even with more copper available from the different electrode sizes, there was
no significant effect of the electroplating as the ions became more attractive to the

Buna Pushani 32
electrons. In other words, the redox reaction that took place occurred at a slow rate
preventing the maximum amount of copper to be plated onto the brass electrode. The
oxidation of the copper electrode (loss of electrons) and the reduction of the brass
electrode (gain of electrons) allowed for copper to be plated onto brass. However,
because the concentration of the electrolytes was not entirely accurate, it did not allow for
the greatest amount of copper to be plated, thus making the interaction insignificant.
Errors in the experimental design negatively affected the data and data analysis.
The most eminent error in the experiment was the use of the copper II acetate electrolyte.
All three of the electrolytescopper II sulfate, (CuSO4), copper II chloride, (CuCl2), and
copper II acetate, (Cu(C2H3O2)2)were prepared by the researchers themselves. The
crystalline substances were massed, added to distilled water, and stirred. After heating at
high temperatures and mixing for a substantial amount of time, the copper II acetate,
(Cu(C2H3O2)2), never fully ionized in the water to create a consistent solution. After some
time, the particles would emerge from the solution and settle at the bottom of the beaker.
The preparation of the 1.0 M solution was based on the amount of chemical fully ionized
in the water. The crystal chemicals were not fully ionized in the water making the
calculated molarity of the solution inaccurate. This affects the data because molarity or
the concentration of a solution plays a big role in the efficiency of electroplating.
Increasing the molarity increases the speed at which ions and electrons move through the
circuit and the speed of the plating process. As long as ions and electrons keep moving,
current keeps flowing and the plating process continues. The researchers attempted to
obverse this issue by stirring the solution for two-five minutes prior to the trial the
solution was used in. Along with the particles in the solution ionizing weakly, the amount

Buna Pushani 33
of the solution was not enough. Due to the dependence of the ionization of the
electrolyte, the right amount of solution was not prepared. The lack of materials needed
to prepare more of the electrolyte caused the researchers to reuse the solution used in the
prior trial. This may have deranged the data considering the fact that a chemical reaction
had already occurred in the solution from a current run through the electrodes into the
electrolyte and back through the electrodes.
In addition to solution inaccuracies, the mass of the electrodes were not very
precise. Once the metal electrodes were washed they could not come in contact with
human skin or else they would have interfered with the data. Metal tongs were used to
convey the electrodes from the scale to the electrolyte, but were difficult to use. The
electrodes would often fall from or get scratched by the tongs, which may have affected
the measurements of the mass of the electrodes. Another flaw in the experimental design
was the size of the 0.5cm x 0.5cm electrodes. Because of the electrodes small surface
area, when the current ran through, the copper that plated onto the brass detached from
the electrode because of the lack of attraction. That being said, possible copper plating
was lost into the solution and caused a disturbance in the data of the difference in mass
before and after electroplating (see Data and Observations). The researchers attempted to
counter this by placing more of the electrode into the solution so that more surface area
was available for electroplating. These design flaws prevented the overall results of the
trials from being entirely accurate, although differences between similar trials were
minimal.
This experiment offered useful information for future research on the topic.
Factors that significantly affected the copper electroplating process are outlined in this

Buna Pushani 34
research and could be expanded upon. Another experiment could explore other factors of
an electrolytic cell, such as molarity of solution or temperature. This could be done by
increasing the molarity of a solution as a variable or altering the temperature of the
electrolyte solution while plating. These alterations would explore both the branch of
thermodynamics and electrochemistry. Likewise, future research would benefit from a
larger scale experiment that uses an industrialized method so that the results would be
more accurate. Electroplating is conducted industrially, so it would be logical to use
industrial methods and quantities. If future researchers expanded upon this experiment,
some refinements would be necessary. Overall, future research based off of this
experiment would augment the understanding of factors of an electrolytic cell that
influence the efficiency of copper electroplating.
Not only would the scientific community benefit from future research, but society
as a whole would receive benefits. The purpose of this experiment was to determine
which combination of factors of an electrolytic cell would produce the most efficient
method of copper electroplating. Engineers and those who design and run electroplating
businesses could use this research in the development of electroplating facilities and
equipment. Industries such as the automobile and jewelry industry along with programs
such as the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation (NADCAP)
program could also benefit from this experiment with their daily use of electroplating.
Different methods of electroplating would result in the industries and programs obtaining
a specific quality they look for in a metal through the coating instead of the full piece of
metal; this process helps conserve money and time. This would also reward the
consumers since the cost of the products would decrease.

Buna Pushani 35
Electroplating, or the coating of one metal onto another, is an effective way to
change the appearance of a metal as well as give it certain characteristics to improve
quality. It is an inexpensive and efficient way to increase the life of a metal and prevent it
from undergoing corrosion. This experiment revealed that the electrolytic cell with
copper II sulfate, (CuSO4) solution and 1.5cm x 1.5cm electrode size pieces (+,+) would
produce the greatest difference in mass of copper electroplated onto brass before and after
electroplating, thus being the most efficient. The labor dynamics in industries such as the
automobile, jewelry, and plastic manufacturing industries, can use this research of
electroplating as a sufficient way to help increase the quantity and quality of their
products.

Appendix A: Randomization
Materials:
Ti-NSpire Calculator
Procedures:
1. Turn on the calculator and open up a calculator page.
2. Press the menu button and scroll to choice 5: Probability and press enter.
3. Scroll to choice 4: Random and press enter.
4. Scroll to choice 6: Seed and press enter.
5. The calculator page will now say RandSeed. Enter any number to seed the
calculator for randomization purposes.
6. Repeat steps 2 and 3.
7. Scroll to choice 2: Integer and press enter.

Buna Pushani 36
8. The calculator page will now say randInt(). In the parenthesis, enter one comma
4 meaning the count will start at one and end at five, in correspondence to the 4
different combinations of electrolytic cells.
9. Press enter and the number will appear. This number determines which
combination will be used for each given trial.
10. Keep pressing enter until each combination is assigned to a given trial number.

Appendix B: Preparing Electrolyte Solutions

Only 40 ml of each electrolyte solution was used in each trial. Each individual
trial requires a new electrolyte bath. These steps involve making each individual
electrolyte solution for each individual trial. Begin by gathering the required materials.
1.0M Copper (II) Sulfate (CuSO4):
Fill up a 500 ml beaker with 500 ml of distilled water. Dispense about 100 ml of
water out of the beaker and measure approximately 80 g of CuSO4. Heat up the water on a
stir plate and add the massed CuSO4 into the beaker. Stir the solution until no particles are
visible. Add more distilled water to the beaker until it reaches 500 ml.
1.0M Copper (II) Acetate (Cu(C2H3O2)2):
Fill up a 500 ml beaker with 500 ml of distilled water. Dispense about 100 ml of
water out of the beaker and measure approximately 91 g of Cu(C2H3O2)2. Heat up the

Buna Pushani 37
water on a stir plate and add the massed Cu(C2H3O2)2 into the beaker. Stir the solution
until no particles are visible. Add more distilled water to the beaker until it reaches 500
ml.
1.0M Copper (II) Chloride (CuCl2):
Fill up a 500 ml beaker with 500 ml of distilled water. Dispense about 100 ml of
water out of the beaker and measure approximately 67 g of CuCl2. Heat up the water on a
stir plate and add the massed CuCl2 into the beaker. Stir the solution until no particles are
visible. Add more distilled water to the beaker until it reaches 500 ml.

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