Characterization of Cr–ZrO2 composite coatings electrodeposited from Cr(III) bath

Abstract

The aim of this work was to incorporate ZrO₂ particles into a Cr matrix within the research work aimed at obtaining metal matrix composite coatings (Cr–ZrO₂) under direct current and to evaluate their protective properties. A Cr–ZrO₂ composite coating was deposited from an electrolyte based on trivalent chromium sulphate with formate-urea as a complexing agent containing various concentrations of ZrO₂. Cross-section investigations have revealed that ZrO₂ particles incorporated into the Cr coating are uniformly distributed. The results indicate that ZrO₂ particles influence the microhardness, morphology and corrosion behaviour of Cr–ZrO₂ composite coatings obtained from the Cr(III) bath.