This electroplating process involves the use of an aqueous electrolyte solutions that consists of acids, cleaners, dissolved metal salts, ions and various chemicals in water (H2O). The hydrogen from the water may be co-deposited onto the surface of the substrate along with the metal ions. This can result in a potentially harmful condition known as hydrogen embrittlement. Hydrogen embrittlement is a loss of ductility due to excess hydrogen absorption, which makes the material brittle. It occurs because hydrogen atoms are much smaller than those that comprise the deposited metal. This causes the hydrogen atoms to migrate into the crystal lattice of the base metal and become lodged between the individual metal atoms. This can substantially increase the stress of applied forces within the base metal and result in fracturing. 

One way to prevent hydrogen embrittlement is post-plating baking: baking the part shortly after plating (less than 4 hours) can reverse the effects of hydrogen embrittlement in most cases. General guidelines call for baking the part for four hours at a temperature of 375º F +/- 25º F within four hours of plating. Miller Plating can post-plate bake any of its zinc or zinc alloy finishes.