N. Chronopoulou, E.A. Pavlatou
Journal of Solid State Electrochemistry 2026
In the present work, nickel matrix composite electrocoatings, reinforced with multi-walled carbon nanotubes-µSiC hybrid particles, were prepared from a Watts type bath by applying direct (DC), as well as pulse current (PC). The effect of the applied frequency values and the role of the presence or absence of the additive sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) on the surface morphology, crystallographic orientation, roughness, microhardness and wear resistance were studied. Imposing high frequency pulse current results in a random orientation, regardless of the presence or absence of SDS in the electrolytic bath. In presence of SDS, nickel crystalline grain size reduces, a more uniform dispersion of the hybrid particles in the Ni matrix occurs, while the percentage of the incorporated particles rises. By evaluating the dry sliding wear behavior data, lower coefficient of friction, higher resistance to dry sliding accompanied by the presence of increased amounts of nickel oxide in the wear tracks compared to the pure Ni coatings, were observed.