Preparation, corrosion resistance and mechanical properties of electroless Ni-B/α-ZrP composite coatings

Ni-B/α-ZrP composite coatings were successfully prepared on the surface of N80 carbon steel by electroless plating. The effects of the two-dimensional hierarchical material α-ZrP on the surface morphology, corrosion resistance and mechanical behavior of the coatings were investigated. Compared with Ni-B alloy coatings, the corrosion resistance and mechanical behavior of Ni-B/α-ZrP composite coatings are significantly enhanced. When the content of α-ZrP is 1.5 g/L, the coating exhibits the highest hardness (1000.92 HV) and the lowest friction coefficient (COF = 0.302). Its wear volume is 86% lower than that of Ni-B alloy. At this time, the coating also has the maximum impedance (Rct = 24,870 Ω·cm2) and the lowest corrosion current, showing the best corrosion resistance. [Display omitted] •For the first time, the hierarchical nanomaterial α-ZrP was applied to electroless Ni-B coating.•Ni-B/α-ZrP (1.5 g/L) nanocomposite coating exhibits the best corrison resistance (Rct = 24,870 Ω·cm2).•Ni-B/α-ZrP (1.5 g/L) nanocomposite coating exhibits the best hardness (1000.92 HV).•The COF of Ni-B/α-ZrP (1.5 g/L) composite coating decreased by 48.02%.