Effect of current on the characteristics of CuNi-G nanocomposite coatings developed by DC, PC and PRC electrodeposition

Abstract

Copper–nickel (CuNi) and graphene nanoplatelet-reinforced CuNi (CuNi-G) nanocomposite coatings were prepared on the surface of stainless-steel substrates in a citrate bath using direct current (DC), pulse current (PC), and pulse reverse current (PRC) electrodeposition techniques. The effect of various electrodeposition currents on the morphology, composition, contact angle, microstructure, microhardness, and wear performance of the coatings were studied. Substantial changes in the surface morphology and microstructure of CuNi-G nanocomposite coatings were observed. The results show that the incorporation of G significantly enhanced the microhardness and wear resistance of electrodeposited coatings. PC and PRC electrodeposited CuNi-G nanocomposite coatings show higher microhardness and wear resistance than DC electrodeposited coatings because of smaller crystallite size, higher content of G, and lower surface roughness.