Microstructure, Friction and Wear Behavior and Corrosion Resistance of electroless Double-Layer Ni-P/Ni-Mo-P Coatings on AZ91D Magnesium Alloy

Double-layer Ni-P coatings with low phosphorus content in the inner layer and high phosphorus content in the outer layer and Ni-Mo-P composite coatings are successfully prepared on the surface of AZ91D magnesium alloy by chemical plating process. The microstructures, friction and corrosion resistance of double-layer Ni-P and Ni-Mo-P coatings are studied in comparison. Meanwhile, the deposition and corrosion resistance mechanism for the coatings are investigated. Results convey that both Ni-P and Ni-Mo-P coatings showcase an amorphous structure. The coating possesses denser and more homogeneous structure with the co-doping of Mo. The micro-indentation hardness (859.7 HV) and friction coefficient (0.58) of Ni-Mo-P coatings show that the ternary alloy coating is firmly bonded to the magnesium alloy substrate. Besides, the Ni-Mo-P coatings demonstrate exceptional wear resistance attributed to Mo co-deposition, fostering grain refinement and facilitating the growth of passivation films.