Zinc-nickel coatings: relationship between additives and deposit properties

This study explores the electroplating of zinc-nickel alloys from a chloride bath incorporating two brighteners and a leveling agent under varying conditions. The primary objective is to investigate the relationship between the additives' concentration and the resulting deposit morphology and properties. Methodologically, scanning electron microscopy was employed to classify deposit morphologies, while corrosion resistance was evaluated using a neutral salt-spray test. The results indicate that both brighteners and leveling agents significantly influence the composition and morphology of the zinc-nickel alloys, with corresponding improvements in deposit smoothness and grain refinement. Furthermore, coatings produced with varying conditions exhibited differing corrosion resistance levels, particularly when treated with chromate solutions. These findings highlight the critical role of additives in enhancing the performance characteristics of electrodeposited Zn-Ni alloy coatings, making them more suitable for applications requiring robust corrosion protection and aesthetic quality.