•  
  •  
 

Journal of Metals, Materials and Minerals

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

This study investigates how sodium tungstate concentration (20–46 wt.%) and current density (40–60 A/dm²) affect the microstructure, wettability, mechanical properties, and tribological behavior of electrodeposited Ni-W coatings. Results show that increasing current density markedly raises crack density (from <100 to >400 cracks/cm²), while tungstate concentration has minimal effect. XRD confirms Ni-W solid solution formation, with higher tungsten content refining grains and increasing hardness—peaking at 900 HV at 50 A/dm² (an 80% rise from 500 HV at 40 A/dm²). However, excessive stress at 60 A/dm² leads to microcracking and hardness plateauing (~650–700 HV). Higher crack density improves wettability (contact angle ~17°), enhancing lubricant retention. Wear tests reveal that coatings with controlled microcrack networks perform better, with wear rates dropping by up to 60% in lubricated conditions. These findings highlight the potential of fine-tuning electroplating conditions to optimize Ni-W coatings as durable, high-performance, and environmentally friendly alternatives to chromium coatings, especially for aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications.

DOI

10.55713/jmmm.v35i4.2376

First Page

-

Last Page

-

Download

Share

COinS
 
 

To view the content in your browser, please download Adobe Reader or, alternately,
you may Download the file to your hard drive.

NOTE: The latest versions of Adobe Reader do not support viewing PDF files within Firefox on Mac OS and if you are using a modern (Intel) Mac, there is no official plugin for viewing PDF files within the browser window.