Work

Effect of TiC Addition on Microstructure and Performances of Double Pulse Electrodeposited Ni-TiC Coatings

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Nickel–titanium carbide (Ni-TiC) coatings were synthesized on Q235 steel via double-pulse electrodeposition to enhance surface properties. The influence of TiC concentration on surface morphology, microstructure, and performance was systematically studied using SEM, TEM, XRD, microhardness testing, wear analysis, and electrochemical methods. At low TiC concentrations (2–4 g/L), the coatings exhibited typical cell-like morphology. At 8 g/L, the coating showed a dense structure, refined grains, and broad Ni diffraction peaks. TEM analysis revealed nickel and TiC grain sizes of 97.82 nm and 34.75 nm, respectively. The plating rate remained stable (~36.94 mg·cm−2·h−1), while surface roughness increased with TiC content. The 8 g/L TiC coating achieved the highest microhardness (743.13 HV), lowest wear loss (5.43%), and superior corrosion resistance, with a self-corrosion current density of 5.27 × 10−6 A·cm−2 and polarization resistance of 7705.62 Ω·cm2. These enhancements are attributed to uniform TiC dispersion and grain boundary pinning. Thus, 8 g/L TiC is optimal for fabricating Ni-TiC coatings with improved mechanical and electrochemical performance. This work demonstrates a practical strategy for developing high-performance Ni-based composite coatings via double-pulse electrodeposition.

Source: Coatings

DOI: 10.3390/coatings15050598

Authors: Haijun Liu, Hui Wang, Fafeng Xia

Institutions: Huzhou College, Zhejiang A & F University, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Northeast Agricultural University

Language: English

Topic: Electrodeposition and Electroless Coatings

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137

Funder: Huzhou University