Pulse electro co-deposition of submicron-sized TiC reinforced Ni-W coatings: tribological and corrosion properties

Nickel-Tungsten-Titanium carbide (Ni-W-TiC) coatings were produced by pulse electrodeposition from a Ni-W electrolyte containing TiC particles. The effects of TiC concentration in the electrolyte on the morphology, crystallite size, microstrain, mechanical, tribology and electrochemical properties of TiC reinforced Ni-W co-depositions were investigated. The highest hardness of 8.3 GPa and modulus of elasticity of 207 GPa were observed in the case of the coating produced at 15 g/L TiC concentration in the electrolyte. The increase in the H/E and H-3/E-2 ratios led to displaying excellent wear resistance of the Ni-W-TiC co-depositions besides high resistance to plastic deformation. A direct correlation was observed between nanoindentation and wear resistance results of reinforced TiC co-depositions. It has also been shown by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization analysis that TiC particles can improve the electrochemical properties of the co-depositions because of their barrier effect.

Automated summary

Nickel-Tungsten-Titanium carbide (Ni-W-TiC) coatings were produced by pulse electrodeposition from an electrolyte containing TiC particles. The presence of TiC in the electrolyte improved the mechanical and tribological properties of the coatings, with the highest hardness and modulus of elasticity observed at 15 g/L TiC concentration. The TiC particles also enhanced the electrochemical properties of the coatings due to their barrier effect.