Improving tribocorroson behaviour by electro-codeposition of TiC nano-dispersed particles with nickel as hybrid layers for energy applications

Abstract

In this paper, the results on the surface morphology, nanohardness and tribocorrosion properties of electrodeposited nanostructured Ni/TiC hybrid layers compared with pure Ni layers are presented. The Ni/nano-TiC hybrid layers were obtained by electro-codeposition of TiC nanoparticles (50 nm mean diameter) with nickel from a Watts type bath, on 316L stainless steel support. The combined fretting-corrosion performance was investigated using a reciprocating ball-on-disk tribometer coupled to an electrochemical cell in an electrolyte which simulates the primary water circuit of Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs). Open circuit potential, as in situ electrochemical technique was performed before, during and after fretting tests in order to obtain information on the changes in surface conditions induced by fretting. The results clearly revealed enhanced nanohardness, improved tribocorrosion properties and reduced coefficients of friction for Ni/nano-TiC hybrid layers as compared to pure Ni layers. The much improved nanohardness and tribocorrosion behaviour can be attributed to the TiC nanoparticles reinforced into Ni matrix.