Development of anti-corrosion properties using ternary electrodeposited Zn–Ni–Co alloys from acidic electrolyte for automobile applications

Abstract

ABSTRACT In the present work, the authors designed a deposition process and prepared ternary Zn–Ni–Co alloy material over a mild steel substrate via direct current deposition using an acidic electrolyte for the development of good surface quality and corrosion resistance properties in metal finishing uses. The quality of coatings has been optimised, through implementation of different experimental conditions and parameters, respectively. The prepared specimens have been subjected to X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The XRD pattern revealed highly crystalline properties and FESEM revealed a bright and uniform deposit distribution with an aggregated spherical structure. Electrochemical studies through Tafel polarisation testing and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were carried out in 3.5% NaCl solution. The Tafel analysis revealed that Zn–Ni–Co alloy deposited with the highest corrosion resistance property was observed at a practical currect density of 1 A dm−2. Thus, it can be possible to produce coated material for good corrosion resistance for machinery parts in automobile industries.