Influence of a New Brightener on Electrodeposition of Zn-Ni Alloy

Abstract

Electroplating of Zinc-Nickel alloy on mild steel substrate was obtained in the presence of a new brightener on steel surface by electrodeposition technique. Effect of bath constituents, pH, current density, and temperature on the nature of deposit was studied by Hull cell experiments. The bath composition and operating parameters were optimized by Hull cell experiments. Further investigations on the surface characteristics of deposit were carried out by using SEM and Reflectance studies. SEM analysis in the presence of this brightener confirmed the change in surface morphology and reflectance studies showed the formation of the bright coating. Corrosion studies were done using Tafel polarization and Electrochemical Impedance technique. Inclusion of brightener in the zinc-nickel alloy coating was confirmed by FTIR technique. The properties like brightness and corrosion resistance of Zinc-Nickel alloy deposit improved in the presence of new brightener.