Improvement in the properties of nickel by nano-Cr2O3 incorporation

Nano-ceramic composite coatings were prepared by the electrodeposition method using sulphamate electrolyte. Nickel was chosen as the metal matrix and nano-Cr2O3 particles were chosen as the reinforcement. The surface morphology and the particle distribution in the coating were analysed using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). The particle content was obtained using energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX). A change in the surface morphology of Ni was seen on the incorporation of Cr2O3 particles. The coatings were characterized for their structure and no change in the diffraction pattern was seen between plain Ni and Ni-Cr2O3 composite. The mechanical property like microhardness and tribological behaviour of the nano-composite coatings was studied and it was observed that the incorporation of Cr2O3 particles enhanced the mechanical properties of Ni matrix. The nano-composites were analysed for their thermal stability and corrosion resistance. An improvement in thermal stability was observed but no change in the corrosion behaviour of Ni was seen on the incorporation of nano chromium oxide particles. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.