Electrodeposition and characterization of Ni–Zn–P and Ni–Zn–P/nano-SiC coatings

Alloy coatings and metal based composites have been given special attention for their unique properties. In the present study, a novel electroplating bath was introduced. Ni–Zn, Ni–Zn–P nickel rich alloy coatings and Ni–Zn–P/nano-SiC nickel rich composite coating were successfully deposited on low carbon steel substrates. The optimum bath composition was found by comparing the amount of coating cracks checked by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The presence of nearly homogeneous SiC nanoparticles in the coating was confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and MAP analysis. The effect of operating conditions on the mechanical properties of nanocomposite coatings was investigated. The wear resistance of the coatings was examined by pin on disk wear tests. The nanocomposite coatings had a lower weight loss compared to the Ni–Zn–P coatings in the wear test.

► Ni–Zn, Ni–Zn–P alloy and Ni–Zn–P/nano-SiC coatings were electroplated on steel.
► To eliminate cracks in the Ni–Zn alloy coatings, Ni–Zn–P was deposited.
► Codeposition of SiC nanoparticles with the Ni–Zn–P alloy coating was achieved.
► The composite coatings had better tribological performance than the alloy coatings.