Wear and corrosion behavior of electrodeposited nickel–carbon nanotube composite coatings on Ti–6Al–4V alloy in Hanks′ solution

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) have received considerable interest in many industries, but composite coatings of CNTs have not yet been sufficiently developed for use in biomedical implants. This investigation elucidates the wear and corrosion behavior of electroplated Ni/CNT composite coatings on Ti–6Al–4V alloy in Hanks’ solution. Experimental results indicate that the CNTs in an electroplated Ni/CNT composite coating increase its hardness to 98.5% higher than that of a pure Ni coating. Additionally, an Ni/CNT composite coating can form stable and dense passive film, which significantly improves wear and corrosion in Hanks′ solution.

► In this work, Ni–CNTs composite coatings were successfully deposited on a Ti–6Al–4V alloy substrate by electrodeposition. ► The CNTs were uniformly dispersed in the nickel matrix, causing particle dispersion to strengthen the composite coatings. ► The hardness of the Ni–CNTs composite coatings increased when the CNTs concentration in the electrolyte increased. ► Incorporating CNTs in Ni coating that was electroplated on Ti–6Al–4V alloy yielded in a stable and dense passive film by increasing pitting potential. This effect significantly improved wear and corrosion resistance in Hanks’ solution.