Microstructure and properties of mechanical attrition enhanced electroless Ni-P plating on magnesium alloy

Mechanical attrition has been applied to improve the electroless plating process on a magnesium alloy. The results indicated that an alloyed layer forms at the interface of Ni-P coating and magnesium alloy. The Ni-P coating becomes smooth, compact, has refined grains and is free of cracks and pores. The phase of the Ni-P coating transformed from amorphous to crystalline. Consequently, the coating adhesion, hardness and corrosion resistance have been improved significantly. (C) 2007 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.