Friction and wear of nanocrystalline Co and Co-W alloy coatings produced by pulse reverse electrodeposition

► Nanocrystalline Co and Co-W were synthesized by reverse pulse electrodeposition. ► Co coating has better corrosion resistance than Co-W. ► The wear resistance and friction reduction of Co-W are better than that of Co.► Counterparts and sliding conditions affected the friction and wear of coatings. ► Wear mechanism of coating involved in different sliding conditions are explained.