Surface Properties and Characterisation of Cobalt-Nickel-Iron Alloy Coating on Mild Steel for Engineering Applications

• Published in: Nigerian Journal of Technological Development
• Main Author: Zabri M.Z.; Masdek N.R.N.; Mardziah C.M.; Ahmad N.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University of Ilorin, Faculty of Engineering and Technology 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85214684843&doi=10.4314%2fnjtd.v18i4.2889&partnerID=40&md5=5e4b55ea2bb5cd377f7d59c96852de53

Corrosion prevention, enhancement of mechanical properties and aesthetic improvement are key motivators for the use of protective coatings in engineering applications. This study investigates the surface characteristics of electrodeposited Cobalt-Nickel-Iron (CoNiFe) nanoparticle coatings on mild steel substrates to assess cobalt alloy potential for improved performance and durability. Through the usage of electrodeposition method, coatings were applied at varying deposition times (15, 30, and 45 minutes), with electrolyte temperatures maintained at constant 50 ± 3 °C and current levels set at 1.0, 1.5, and 3.0 A respectively. Key properties evaluated include surface roughness, hardness, coating thickness, and breaking energy. Results showed that coating thickness ranged from 14.23 µm to 40.80 µm, with the thickest coating recorded at 45 minutes’ deposition time. Hardness value also increased at longer deposition durations, with the highest achieved value of 503.12 HV at 45 minutes’ deposition time. Surface roughness ranged from 1.4210 µm (30 minutes, 1.0 A) to 8.1085 µm (45 minutes, 3.0 A), indicating significant influence of deposition conditions. Additionally, the coating had a maximum breaking energy of 74 Joules at high-temperature quenching conditions (30 minutes). These findings suggest that CoNiFe coatings applied via controlled electrodeposition process can significantly improve the mechanical resilience and lifespan of mild steel, offering promising applications for advanced engineering environments. © 2024, University of Ilorin, Faculty of Engineering and Technology. All rights reserved.