Effect of additives on nickel-phosphorus deposition obtained by electroless plating: Characterization and corrosion resistance in 3%(mass) sodium chloride medium

Abstract

Nichel-phosphorus (Ni-P) coatings are deposited on mild steel by using an electroless plating process. The effect of three calix[4]arene derivatives, namely tetra methyl ester-P-tertbutyl calix[4]arene (Calix1), tetra acid-P-tert-butyl calix[4]arene (Calix2) and tetra methyl P-tert-butyl-thicalix[4]arene ester (Calix3) on the deposition rate, the deposit composition, and the morphological surface was investigated and the study of growth mechanisms has delivered useful information about the surface properties of deposit. It is found that these additives modify the deposition rate and the nickel crystallization process. In fact, the Calix1 and Calix3 act as an accelerator, while Calix2 acts as an inhibitor for the nickel electroless. Furthermore, it is shown that the chemical bath is more stable with calix[4]arene derivatives addition and the obtained deposits are compact and adherent. It is observed also that the nickel content increases with additives. On the other hand, the X-ray diffraction showed that the orientation peaks are intensified at {1 1 1} in the presence of Calix2, confirming obtained results of EDAX spectrum. The cyclic voltammetry revealed that the tested additives strongly influence the cathodic process and slightly affect the hypophosphite oxidation. Finally, it is found that these compounds improve the anticorrosion efficiency of Ni-P coating on the mild steel substrate in 3% (mass) NaCl, where its polarization resistance increases with Calix2 and Calix3 addition.