Influence of SiC + WC addition to Cr(VI) bath on corrosion behaviour of coatings in sulphate solution

Abstract

Cr–WC–SiC coatings were deposited from Cr(VI) baths containing a mixture of both WC and SiC particles in the ratio of 1 : 1. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data indicated relatively low percentages of both WC (about 2˙68–2˙85 at.-% of W4f) and SiC (0˙16–0˙45 at.-% of Si2p) particles in the top layers of the Cr–WC–SiC coatings. However, these particles have some effect on the morphology and corrosion properties of the Cr coating. Protective properties of the coatings obtained were studied at different exposure times of samples in sulphate solution (pH=2˙8), using the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy method (EIS). Equivalent circuits, based on the electrophysical model describing the electrochemical corrosion at the coated surface, were proposed. The simulation of EIS data with the proposed equivalent circuit models made it possible to reveal the details of the corrosion processes occurring at coated systems (steel/Cr–WC–SiC coatings) immersed in the sulphate solution. Based on EIS data, diffusion in the coating was found to be a significantly controlling factor in the corrosion process for the system under investigation. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy tests indicated a better corrosion resistance of Cr–WC–SiC coating than that of Cr. Analysis of the EIS data suggests that the enhanced corrosion resistance of Cr–WC–SiC coating was due to the microstructural features of these coatings, presumably containing smaller pores than Cr coating.