HYDROHROME FORMULATION

Hydrochrome is a paint that creates a mirror-like finish using a base coat, silvering solution, and top coat. The silvering solution contains silver nitrate or other silver compounds, which react with a reducing agent to create a thin layer of silver. 

Base coat 

• A dark-colored paint that provides a smooth, opaque background
• Must be free of imperfections to create a mirror-like finish

Silvering solution 

• Contains silver nitrate or other silver compounds
• Reacts with a reducing agent to create a thin layer of silver
• Often made up of two parts: a silver solution and a reducer

Top coat 

• A clear coat that protects the silver layer from oxidation, abrasion, and other environmental factors
• Can be water-based or solvent-based

Application 

• The base coat is applied first, then the silvering solution, and finally the top coat
• The silvering solution and reducer are often mixed right before application

Hydrochrome can be applied to many surfaces, including wood, plastic, metal, and leather.