Some studies on Nickel matrix composites electrodeposition characterization and properties

Abstract

The present thesis embodies the author s investigation on the newlineelectrodeposition of some nickel matrix composites from a non-aqueous bath. It is newlinewell known that composites are materials consisting of two or more than two newlineconstituents, in which one component forms a continuous matrix while the other newlineprovides the reinforcement. Composite electrodeposition refers to the electrolysis newlinein which micrometer or sub micrometer size particles are suspended in the newlineelectrolyte solution; the particles become embedded in the electroformed solid newlinephase, imparting special properties to it depending on the degree and type of newlineparticle incorporation. Composite coatings usually have high hardness, wear and newlineabrasion resistance. newlineThe electrodeposition of metal matrix composites from aqueous bath has newlinesome limitations of discharge of hydrogen and dispersion of ceramic particles. newlineDuring electrodeposition in the bath, hydrogen evolution and its subsequent newlineinclusion in the deposit affect the properties and the structure of the deposited newlinemetal matrix composites unfavorably. In recent years there has been much interest newlinein the electrodeposition of metal matrix composites from non-aqueous system due newlineto several advantages offered by organic solvents. It is also very useful to obtain newlinemetal matrix composites with desirable physico-mechanical properties with newlineminimum hydrogen inclusion in the deposits. Moreover, the larger size and newlinedifferent nature of the molecule of an organic solvent provide a variety of ion newlinesolvation probabilities, therefore, the deposits may have some very different and newlinedesirable properties compared with the deposits obtained from aqueous baths.