Cadmium plating involves placing a coat (or plate) consisting of a thin layer of material--in this case, cadmium--over an object. In general, plating is used for protection against corrosion and, overall, making an object last longer. Cadmium plating offers several advantages: superior resistance to corrosion; anti-galling, anti-fungal and anti-static qualities; solderability and ductility. Cadmium plating is mostly used in aerospace and military applications, but it's useful for any parts that will be used in harsh environments.