Performance of Ni–Cu–ZrO2 nanocomposite coatings fabricated by electrodeposition technique

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of the incorporated zirconia (ZrO2) nanoparticles on the performance of the deposited layer Ni–Cu alloy on steel sheet. Design/methodology/approach The aim was to produce Ni–Cu–ZrO2 nanocomposite coatings by electrodeposition technique and estimate the influence of ZrO2 nanoparticles on the performance of Ni–Cu alloy. The surface morphologies and chemical compositions of the deposited layers were assessed using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, respectively. Nanoindentation was used as a well-advanced technique for measuring microhardness and Young’s modulus values of different coatings. The corrosion resistance in 3.5 per cent NaCl solution of electrodeposited films has been investigated. Findings The main conclusion is that the surface morphologies of Ni–Cu–ZrO2 nanocomposite coatings were fine granular compared with Ni–Cu alloy. The corrosion behavior illustrated that the incorporation of ZrO2 nanoparticles with Ni–Cu film improved the corrosion resistance. Significant improvement was also demonstrated in the hardness of nanocomposite coatings. Social implications The optimized industrial use of steel-coated Ni–Cu alloy with super properties. Consequently, a social benefit can be associated with the reduction in the corrosion rate and increases the microhardness and Young’s modulus. Originality/value The results presented in this work are an insight into understanding the incorporation of ceramic reinforcement with metal or alloy films (matrix) on carbon steel using the electrodeposition technique. The development of corrosion resistance of Ni–Cu alloys has been considered as a promising behavior. In this work, a consistent assessment of the results achieved on laboratory scale has been conducted.