Corrosion and Wear Properties of Zn-Based Composite Coatings

Zn electroplated coatings are usually applied to protect the surface of steel components against corrosion. However, to increase their service life, improved mechanical properties of the coatings are required. The present study aimed to investigate the corrosion and sliding wear behavior of Zn electroplated composite coatings deposited onto the surface of a carbon steel substrate. The coatings were obtained by adding diamond and aluminum oxide suspensions in the base deposition bath. The morphology and microstructure of the coatings were characterized by confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, and the chemical composition was determined by energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The corrosion behavior was assessed by electrochemical measurements, and the sliding wear resistance was evaluated by pin on disk method. The results revealed that the addition of diamond and alumina particles in the zinc deposition bath had a positive influence on the tribological behavior of the coatings.