The first practical recipe, an aqueous solution of nickel and ammonium sulfates, was invented by Böttger in 1843 and was in use for 70 years.
[8] The commercial success was achieved by Isaac Adams Jr., whose patent for a solution of nickel ammonium sulfate, while similar to Böttger's, had neutral pH that made the process easier to control.
[4] In the US, Remington tried to use the nickel ammonium chloride solution (1868), in the process establishing the anode construction in the form of a platinum basket filled with nickel pieces,[4] Edward Weston initiated the use of boric acid (patent issued in 1878),[9] Bancroft figured out the role of chlorides in dissolving the anode (1906).
[2][11][12] Type of the added brighteners and their concentrations determine the deposit appearance: brilliant, bright, semi-bright, satin.
It is deposited for dimensional corrections, abrasion and wear resistance, high efficiency coating and corrosion protection.
In the automotive industry bright nickel can be found on bumpers, rims, exhaust pipes and trim.
Other applications include hand tools and household items such as lighting and plumbing fixtures, wire racks, firearms, and appliances.
In order to prevent tarnishing, decorative electroplated nickel is typically coated with a thin layer of chromium.
[8] Nickel is also used as an undercoat for chrome or gold plating, as it improves adhesion and the longevity of the final layer.
[19][20] In manufacturing and repair, nickel electroplating can also restore worn parts to their original dimensions, allowing them to function effectively without replacement.