Preparation and wear properties of Ni/TiN–SiC nanocoatings obtained by pulse current electrodeposition

Abstract In this report, Ni/TiN–SiC nanocoatings were designed by pulse current electrodeposition (PCE) technique. The influence of plating parameters on morphology, microstructure, microhardness, and wear behavior of the as-obtained coatings were investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), triboindentry, and abrasion testing. Results indicated incorporation of numerous TiN and SiC nanoparticles in Ni/TiN–SiC nanocoatings prepared at 4 A/dm2. Average sizes of TiN and SiC nanoparticles were estimated to 45.9 nm and 37.2 nm, respectively. Cross-sectional views of nanocoating obtained at 4 A/dm2 revealed high concentrations of Ti (19.6 at%), Si (12.1 at%), and Ni (53.3 at%). Hence, Ni/TiN–SiC nanocoating deposited at 4 A/dm2 with average microhardness of 848.5 Hv illustrated the highest microhardness when compared to other nanocoatings. On the other hand, wear rate of Ni/TiN–SiC nanocoating prepared at 4 A/dm2 was only 13.6 mg/min, indicating excellent wear resistance. In addition, only some small surface scratches were observed, indicating outstanding wear performance.