The Characteristics of Ag–Al2O3 Films Electrodeposited from Thiocyanate Solutions

The characteristics of Ag–Al2O3 films electrodeposited from silver thiocyanate solutions containing Al2O3 particles were investigated. The following results were obtained. As the amount of added Al2O3 particles was increased, the amount of Al2O3 codeposition in the Ag electrodeposited film increased, with a subsequent increase in the wear resistance of the electrodeposited film. The Al2O3 particles codeposited in the films suppressed recrystallization of the Ag film. Dislocations in the annealed films moved in accordance with Orowan’s theory in the region where the effect of concentration of Al2O3 particles on the yield stress of the film can be disregarded. As more Al2O3 particles codeposited in the films, the tensile stress of the films became lower. This was proposed as due to the compressive stress occurring at the interface between the Ag crystals and the Al2O3 particles. The electrical contact resistance of Ag–Al2O3 electrodeposited film was higher than that of Ag electrodeposited films.