Study of deposition, micro-hardness and wear resistance of electroless Ni-P-BN composite coatings

Nickel - phosphorus coatings with Boron nitride (BN) were produced on low-carbon steel substrate by electroless deposition technique. Characterization of the structure and superficial morphology of the coatings were performed by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies were used to analyse the micro-structucture and phases like Ni3P. Micro-hardness and wear resistance of the electroless composite coatings were evaluated by a micro-hardness tester and a pin on disc wear test apparatus. It was shown that the composite coatings of Ni-P had an amorphous structure. Boron nitride particles did not have a significant improvement on the hardness. It is also remarkable to note BN had a good effect on wear resistance, anti-sticking performance and self-lubrication properties.

Keywords:

Electroless , Ni-P-BN composite coating , micro-hardness , wear resistance