Nickel is a silver-white, non-reactive, magnetic metal. It is a member of the iron-cobalt metal family and has average heat and electric conducting properties. It is used to make alloys in the aerospace, gas, and chemical industries, and in the production of medical instruments and equipment. It is also used to plate items such as jewellery, largely due to its lustrous finish; however it is unfortunately one of the leading causes of allergic reactions. Let’s look at this in more detail.

Nickel allergies

Nickel allergies can cause contact dermatitis, also known as eczema, at the site where the metal makes contact with the skin. This includes earrings affecting the ears, watches and bracelets affecting wrists, necklaces affecting the neck, and other places where nickel-plated jewellery is worn.

The affected areas may become red, itchy, flaky, or even blistered. Allergic reactions can also lead to thickening of the skin or increased pigmentation in the affected area.

Other metal items that come into frequent or prolonged contact with the skin may also cause allergies. These include belt buckles, jean studs, underwear clips, and spectacle frames. Those with an allergy should coat nickel in nail polish to minimise its contact with the skin or source a different material. Platinum, solid silver, and 18-carat gold or more are usually safe alternatives.

Clinical history and a specific allergen patch test can be used to diagnose an allergy. Anyone suffering from skin issues where contact has been made with nickel should avoid the mental.

Nickel plating

Nickel plating traditionally uses an electric current; however, electroless nickel plating is a technique that provides a nickel-alloy coating to surfaces without the need for an electric current.

Experts such as https://www.swmf.co.uk/surface-coatings/electroless-nickel-plating/ deliver electroless nickel plating solutions to aerospace and other high-tech sectors.

Electroless nickel plating increases durability and reduces the likelihood of corrosion and wear. It is an ideal and precision solution for use in mechanical parts and components. Other advantages include its uniform and thorough coating abilities, even in intricate and complex parts, and its increased electrical and thermal properties.