Microstructure, surface characteristics and properties of Ni–W composite coatings reinforced by nanoparticles fabricated by electrodeposition route

Abstract

Abstract The effects of ZrO2, TiN, BN and Si3N4 nanoparticles on the microstructural, surface characteristics and properties of Ni-W composite coating have been comparatively studied in this paper. Their morphology, microstructure and characteristics were evaluated. Results illustrated that nanoparticles have been distributed in Ni-W composite coating, which could reinforce their properties. The surface topography was affected by the operating parameters. The formation of nodular protrusions could be attributed to the preferential discharge of the metal ions at the raised sites. The incorporation of nanoparticles could refine grains. The crystallite size of ZrO2, TiN, BN, and Si3N4 reinforced Ni-W composite coating were 13 ± 1, 13 ± 2, 12 ± 1 and 18 ± 1 nm, respectively. The roughness values (R a) of ZrO2, TiN, BN and Si3N4 strengthened Ni-W composite coating is about 50 ± 2, 70 ± 4, 89 ± 11 and 25 ± 1 nm, respectively. The corrosion-resistant and anti-wear capability have been enhanced by incorporating nanoparticles into the Ni-W alloy matrix. The strengthening mechanisms of the nanocomposite coating were proposed. These nanocomposite coating exhibit potential application advantages as protective coating with high performance in harsh conditions.