A parallel plate flow cell was designed for the study of particle codeposition in metal electrodeposition. Particle deposition was visualized and recorded with a microscope/video assembly. The effects of two surfactants (anionic sodium dodecyl sulphate and cationic cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide) on the adhesion of anionic polystyrene particles to a nickel substrate were examined. The deposition rate in laminar flow was measured as a function of the main parameters, that is, electrode potential, Ni(ii) concentration, surfactant concentration and pH. The hydrodynamic drag force applies uniformly and tangentially to the collector under laminar flow in contrast with rotating disc or impinging jet cells. No deposition is observed unless specific attractive forces carry the particles through the boundary layer. Particle attachment takes place over a limited range of surfactant/Ni(II) composition and correlates with the formation of a surface film visible under the microscope. Results discussed are based on the adsorption of SDS and CTAB on to both the electrode and the particles, an adsorption which significantly alters the interaction potential at a short distance. The cell gives interesting evidence for the occurrence of specific interactions in electrolytic codeposition. It also proves useful for observing other phenomena, such as hydrogen bubbling.