a thin film of electroless plated nonmagnetic nickel / phosphor forms at least the external cylindrical surface of a hollow magnetic brush roller . the plated nonmagnetic film or layer is deposited at least one the exterior cylindrical surface of a hollow , electrically conductive , metal , nonmagnetic , aluminum roller or nonmagnetic stainless steel roller . alternatively , the plated film is deposited on both the external and internal surfaces of such a development roller that is formed of an electrically conductive and nonmagnetic plastic material . the plated film is electrically conductive and relatively transparent to the magnetic fields that are generated by stationary permanent magnets that are positioned inside of the hollow and rotatable magnetic brush roller . the roller is intended for use in xerographic copiers , printers , and the like . the invention is usable both in the new - build of magnetic brush developers and in the refurbishing / recycling of existing magnetic brush developers apparatus .