Need Help with basic copper plating

[gavztheouch]

I have been trying to do a basic copper plate using Copper sulphate (Copper permanganate).

The main issue I am having is the copper is plating onto the steel without any current at all being applied. All I do is dip the steel into the solution of water and copper sulphate and the copper instantly builds on the steel. The problem I have here is the adhesion is poor and once dry the copper can be chipped off, it comes off in flakes rather than binding to the steel.

I have a lot of copper sulphate in solution is this causing issues?

Many thanks
Gav

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[magicniner]

Gav,
Copper Sulphate deposits copper OK but with poor to no adhesion, you need an acid solution for better adhesion.
Google copper plating solution and take your pick of the home-brew or commercial solutions out there,
Regards,
Nick