Ni nanocomposite films formed by Ni nanowires embedded in Ni matrix using electrodeposition

Ni nanocomposite films formed by Ni nanowires embedded in Ni matrix (Ni nanowire/Ni composite films) were fabricated by electrodeposition combined with supersonic stirring in a conventional Watts' bath containing Ni nanowires with diameter about 30 nm. The deposition temperature-dependent microstructure, crystal orientation, lattice constant and corrosion behavior of the Ni nanowire/Ni composite films were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction and potentiodynamic polarization tests, respectively. And the possible mechanism was discussed. It is found that to some extent, the deposition temperature has an impact on the microstructure, crystal orientation, lattice constant and corrosion property of the Ni nanowire/Ni composite films. The Ni nanowire/Ni composite films prepared at 50 °C exhibit a novel inter-twisted-nanowire microstructure and have the best corrosion resistance.