Effect of Ultrasonic Nanocrystal Surface Modification on Properties of Electrodeposited Ni and Ni-SiC Composite Coatings

In this study, pure nickel and Ni-SiC composite coatings were prepared by the conventional electrodeposition technique from nickel sulfamate electrolytic bath containing dispersed SiC particles. The samples obtained after the electrodeposition were subjected to the ultrasonic nanocrystal surface modification (UNSM) technique to improve the surface- and interface-related properties of the coatings. The surface morphology, elemental composition, surface roughness, microstructure, and crystallinity were observed and analyzed by using scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, roughness tester, and x-ray diffraction techniques, respectively. Electrochemical corrosion behavior of the obtained samples was evaluated in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution by using three electrodes configuration. XRD result revealed the enhanced crystallinity of the UNSM-treated samples. A significant improvement in surface morphology, Vickers microhardness, wear and coefficient of friction, and anti-corrosion property was observed in the UNSM-treated nickel and Ni-SiC coatings compared to the UNSM-untreated samples.