Effects of electrodeposition parameters on morphology and properties of Zn–TiO 2 composite coating

Abstract

Compared to metallic coating, composite coating has more significant mechanical and tribological properties. In this study, titania particles that were codeposited with zinc on a plain carbon steel substrate were used as reinforcements. In addition, the mechanical and tribological properties of these coatings were studied. The effects of bath temperature, stirring rate of electrodeposition solution and concentration of titania in bath on the morphological, mechanical and tribological properties were also investigated. The electrodeposited samples were observed with optical microscope, scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope. Then, the microhardness and wear properties of the samples were measured. Finally, the optimum degrees of these parameters were achieved to attain maximum codeposition of reinforcement particles, hardness degrees and wear resistance of coatings. The optimised degrees of bath temperature, solution stirring rate and titania concentration in the bath were found to be 40°C, 300 rev min⁻¹ and 5 g L⁻¹ respectively.