Wear and Friction Properties of Electrodeposited Ni-Based Coatings Subject to Nano-enhanced Lubricant and Composite Coating

This paper presents research findings on the tribological performance of electrodeposited coatings subject to nano-lubricants with the addition of nano-Al2O3 and graphene and Ni/nano-Al2O3 composite coatings. Electrodeposited coatings were produced by using a pulse electrodeposition method. Tribological experiments were conducted by using a linear reciprocating ball on flat sliding tribometer. Experimental results confirmed that the wear and friction resistance properties were significantly enhanced by doping of nano-effects in the lubricating oil and composite coating. The addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles in the lubricating oil showed the best tribological properties, followed by Ni–Al2O3 composite coatings and nano-oil with graphene. The surface morphology and microstructure of electrodeposited coatings were examined by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The wear mechanisms of these coatings subjected to tribological testing were investigated by post-test surface analyses. This research provides a novel approach to design durable nano-coatings for tribological applications in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, locomotive and renewable energy technologies.