A review of fundamental aspects, characterization and applications of electrodeposited nanocrystalline iron group metals, Ni-Fe alloy and oxide ceramics reinforced nanocomposite coatings

Electrochemical co-deposition of materials offers some unique advantages over competing technologies and therefore occupies special place in science and technology. Ni-Fe alloys are of great commercial interest owing to their interesting mechanical, electrical, magnetic and corrosion resistant properties. In this communication the present state of art on the electrodeposition of iron group metals and specially Ni-Fe alloy and oxide ceramic reinforced nanocomposites is reported along with a brief overview of fundamental principles, techniques and engineering applications of these metal matrix composites (MMCs) which include their ductility, hardness, electrical resistivity, thermal stability, corrosion resistance, soft magnetic and superparamagnetic properties. These properties of the deposits are mainly dependent on their composition, plating parameters and nature, size, content and distribution of the incorporated ceramic particles in the matrix. Potential commercial applications of these coatings have been discussed and attempts have been made to define accurate and predictive correlations with plating parameters.