Tailoring nickel coatings via electrodeposition from a eutectic-based ionic liquid doped with nicotinic acid

► An additive known to work in aqueous baths is demonstrated to be effective in IL. ► The ability of an acid to 'tune' the electrodeposition achieved in IL is apparent. ► Effect of NA on the voltammetric behavior of Ni (II) and nucleation/growth of Ni deposits was revealed. ► Effect of NA on the morphology and microstructure of the Ni was studied. ► It is shown that NA has a profound impact on grain size reduction.