Electrodeposited Co-WS2 composite coatings with resistance to fouling, wear, and corrosion

Developing a coated metal mold to avoid scuff, corrosion, and fouling in rubber vulcanization condition remains challenging. Here, a composite coating is described which combines resistance to fouling, wear, and corrosion by incorporating low surface energy tungsten disulfide ( WS2) into a robust cobalt (Co) matrix for wear and corrosion resistance together with antifouling. The dispersity of WS2 in the electroplating solution is improved by combining chemical modification with mechanical milling. The addition of 2 g/L WS2 to the electroplating bath produced a Co-WS2 composite coating with effective tribological and anticorrosion performance in 3.5 wt.% standing NaCl solution at 25 degrees C as well as superior antifouling behavior in rubber vulcanization conducted at 160 degrees C and 9.8 Mpa.