Synthesis and Characterization of Ni-P-Ti Nanocomposite Coatings on HSLA Steel

Abstract

Nickel Phosphorus (Ni-P) coatings possess tailored mechanical, and anticorrosion properties and have found applications in industries like automotive, oil and gas, electronics, and aerospace. Their properties can further be enhanced by incorporating nanoparticles into their (Ni-P) matrix. In the present study, Ni-P-Ti nanocomposite coatings have been developed on high strength low alloy steel (HSLA) through electroless deposition technique. For this purpose, various concentrations of titanium (Ti) nanoparticles are used in the deposition bath containing 0.0g/L, 0.25g/L, 0.5g/L, 0.75g/L, and 1.0g/L nanoparticles. XDR, SEM, microhardness, and nanoindentation have been carried out to elucidate the role of Ti nanoparticle concertation on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the Ni-P-Ti composite coatings. XRD and EDX results confirm the incorporation of nanoparticles into the Ni-P matrix during deposition processing. SEM and AFM results exhibit the formation of a dense, uniform coating without any observable defects. An increase in the mechanical properties of the Ni-P matrix was observed by the addition of Ti nanoparticles. Superior mechanical properties were shown by the samples containing 0.5g/L Ti nanoparticle concentration. Improvement in the structural, as well as mechanical properties of Ni-P matrix by the addition of Ti, confirms the suitability of Ni-P-Ti composite coatings for various engineering applications.