Effect of current density on surface morphology, microstructure, and microhardness of Ni-Al2O3 composite coatings prepared by jet electrodeposition

This research obtained Ni-Al₂O₃ composite coatings at the copper matrix using jet electrodeposition. It characterized the surface morphology, XRD spectra, and microhardness of the coatings in order to obtain the optimal combination of process parameters for the preparation of the coatings and to further improve the comprehensive performance of the nickel-based nanocomposites. The results show that by the optimization of the parameters, the organization of the coating was effectively improved, and its mechanical properties were enhanced. A current density of 130A/dm² resulted in the smoothest surface and best performance of the prepared coatings. At this moment, the highest value of Al₂O₃ content was 10.2at%, the smallest grain size was 15.2nm, and the maximum microhardness value was 519.59HV.