Preparation of Ni-W/SiC nanocomposite coatings by electrochemical deposition

Abstract

Ni-W/SiC nanocomposite coatings were electrodeposited in modified Ni-W electrolytes containing suspended SiC nanoparticles. Deposition parameters including SiC nanoparticles concentration in the electrolyte, current density and deposition time were optimized for the highest corrosion and wear resistance of the composite coatings: the current density 1–2 A dm−2, SiC concentration 6 g L−1 and deposition time 10–30 min. The influence of electrodeposition parameters on the morphologies, corrosion behavior, microhardness and wear resistance of the nanocomposite coatings were investigated. The nanocomposite coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), X ray diffraction (XRD) and electrochemical technique. The results indicated that SiC content in the composite coatings increases with the increase of SiC concentration in the baths and more SiC nanoparticles will incorporated in the coatings at 2 A dm−2. SiC and W content in the deposits varied with the change of the current density, deposition time and SiC concentration in the bath. The incorporation of SiC nanoparticles alters the chemical composition of Ni-W, enhances the microhardness of the composite coatings and significantly strengthens the anti-corrosion behavior and wear resistance of the coatings. The composite coatings have a good application prospect for metal protection in harsh corrosion environment.