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Umicore Galvanotechnik in Schwäbisch Gmünd has succeeded in developing a black ruthenium electrolyte from which not just grey to anthracite but previously unattainable dark to black layers can be deposited. The blackness of the layers can be very easily adjusted by means of the blackening agent.

Up to now, it has only been possible to electrolytically produce such dark layers with black rhodium or black nickel processes. Since nickel may cause allergies, however, it must not be used in many areas. At current precious metal prices, the cost savings of black ruthenium compared to black rhodium are approx. 90 per cent. Thus the new Black Ruthenium 479 is a cost-effective, nickel-free alternative to black rhodium. Brightness-retaining, corrosion- and tarnish-resistant layer thicknesses up to 0.3 µm can be produced.

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