Brass and copper electroplating on steel?

[PeterG]

In my never ending battles with rust, I am about to try and get several of my mild steel sculptures electroplated with copper and brass. I think they lay down a coating of nickel first.

Does anyone know how durable this is in an outdoor setting?

Can you use patina chemicals on it without destroying the plating?

Many thanks

Peter

[EJB]

Plating will help but is still no guarantee against the formation of rust. Surface prep is essential, also thickness of the plating plays a role in its durability. Very thin layers of plating can literally be burned off during hot patina process if you're not careful. Cold process patinas might be more advisable. Maintenance upon completion is more important on plated pieces. Just like a painted or powdercoated surface, once the surface is scratched or breached in any way, rust will begin to form beneath the plated surface and continue to spread if left unchecked. Take a look at some old chrome plated car bumbers or bicycle parts that have not been cared for and you'll see what I mean.