Bronzing

Bronzing is a process by which a bronze-like surface is applied to other materials (metallic or non-metallic). Some bronzing processes are merely simulated finishes (patinas) applied to existing metal surfaces, or coatings of powered metal that give the appearance of a solid metal surface. In other cases, an actual layer of heavy copper is electroplated onto an object to produce a bronze-like surface. This electroplating is the method traditionally used for "bronzing" of baby shoes.

On metals, a green bronze color is sometimes produced by the action of such substances as vinegar, dilute nitric acid and ammonium chloride. An antique appearance may be given to new bronze articles by brushing over the clean bright metal with a solution of ammonium chloride and calcium oxalate in vinegar, and rubbing the surface dry, the operation being repeated as often as necessary. Another solution for the same purpose is made with ammonium chloride, tartaric acid, sodium chloride and silver nitrate. With a solution of platinic chloride almost any color can be produced on copper, iron, brass or new bronze, according to the dilution and the number of applications. Articles of plaster and wood may be bronzed by coating them with an adhesive followed by a layer of fine metal powder. The bronzing of gun-barrels may be effected by the use of a strong solution of antimony trichloride.