Effects of primary dicarboxylic acids on microstructure and mechanical properties of sub-microcrystalline Ni–Co alloys

Nickel–cobalt alloys were deposited from sulfate electrolyte with oxalic, malonic and succinic acids as additives and their microstructure and mechanical properties were studied. The crystal structure, surface morphologies, and chemical composition of coatings were investigated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The crystal structure and surface morphology analysis showed that the addition of dicarboxylic acid leads to (2 0 0) crystal face and the surface were more compact and uniform due to the grain refining. Ni60–Co40 alloy was achieved when succinic acid is used as additive.

► The electrodeposited Ni–Co alloys are mostly used in magnetic sensors and it has good mechanical and corrosion resistance properties.
► The effect of dicarboxylic acid leads to preferred (2 0 0) crystalline orientation, this may improve magnetic properties dicarboxylic acid can alter the elemental composition of Ni–Co alloy.
► Dicarboxylic acid acts as a good brightner.