Copper electroplating of non-aqueous elastomeric impression materials: a subjective appraisal of their platability

Electroplating of non-aqueous elastomeric impression materials is a well-documented technique. Electroplated silver or copper plated dies have many clinical advantages compared to other die systems. Silver electroplating appears to be used more frequently than copper electroplating. Utilization of silver for electroplating requires an appreciation of financial and biohazard considerations. Research on compatibility of copper electroplating with current non aqueous elastomeric impression materials is lacking. Samples of currently used non aqueous elastomeric impression materials were used to register impressions of conventional crown preparations on a typodont. These impressions were electroplated to form copper plated dies. The surface qualities of the dies were evaluated. Not all impression materials produced visually acceptable or workable copper plated dies.