Effect of nano-Al₂O₃ particle addition on Co–P–xAl₂O₃ nanocomposite plating electroplated on X65 steel

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to reveal the effect of nano-Al2O3 particle addition on the nucleation/growth kinetics, microhardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating. Design/methodology/approach The kinetics and properties of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating prepared by electroplating were investigated by electrochemical measurements, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Vickers microhardness measurement, SRV5 friction and wear tester and atomic force microscopy. Findings A 12 g/L nano-Al2O3 addition in the plating solution can transform the nucleation/growth kinetics of the plating from the 3D progressive model to the 3D instantaneous model. The microhardness of the plating increased with the increase of nano-Al2O3 content in plating. The wear resistance of the plating did not adhere strictly to Archard’s law. An even and denser corrosion product film was generated due to the finer grains, with a high corrosion resistance. Originality/value The effect of different nano-Al2O3 addition on the nucleation/growth kinetics and properties of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating was investigated, and an anticorrosion mechanism of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating was proposed.