Effect of Pulse Electrodeposition Parameters on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Ni-W/B Nanocomposite Coatings

In this work, Ni−W/B nanocomposite coatings were successfully fabricated on low carbon steel by using pulse current (PC) electrodeposition. The effects of the frequency and duty cycle on the microstructure, wear resistance, and microhardness of the coatings were studied. The results obtained show that the distribution and content of boron particles (>4 wt.%) in the PC electrodeposition coatings are significantly better than those of direct current (DC) electrodeposition coatings (less than 4 wt.%). The hardness results reveal that the highest microhardness of 1122 HV can be obtained at a frequency of 100 Hz and duty cycle of 30%. Furthermore, the relationship between the microstructure and mechanical properties was discussed.