Preparation and properties of Ni-W-P-TiO2 nanocomposite coatings developed by a sol-enhanced electroplating method

Several Ni-W-P-TiO₂ nanocomposite coatings were developed by the sol-enhanced electroplating method. The phase and elemental compositions of coatings were determined, and the surface and cross-section morphology were characterized. The mechanical and corrosion performance were systematically tested. The results revealed the addition of 5 ml·L^-1 TiO₂ sol caused a compact coating surface, while higher concentrations of TiO₂ reduced the coating thickness and led to the inferior surface microstructure. The comparison in physiochemical properties of prepared coatings confirmed the superior performance of the Ni-W-P-TiO₂ nanocomposite coating at 5 ml·L^-1 TiO₂ sol addition. Under this condition, the best mechanical properties were achieved when abrasive wear was the dominating wear-resistance mechanism, and the best corrosion resistance was obtained due to its smooth and compact surface microstructure.