Estimation of Zwitterionic Surfactant Response in Electroless Composite Coating and Properties of Ni–P–CuO (Nano)Coating

Electroless Ni–P and Ni–P–CuO coating on mild steel was developed successfully with the addition of Zwitterionic surfactant. The usage of nano-CuO in electroless coating was intermittent though the cost is low with high catalytic activity. Zwitterionic surfactant was introduced into the composite coating for the first time to increase the suspension of nanoparticles effectively during the coating process. Surfactant helps to reduce the intermolecular attraction between the solid and liquid interfaces and hence binding of nanoparticles with the hydrogen gas bubbles was eliminated. Also agglomeration of nanoparticles was controlled by stirring the electrolyte continuously using magnetic stirrer. The characterization and tribological properties were tested for the newly developed composites. Scanning electron microscope micrograph reveals the deposits are produced without any defects and the presence of CuO nanoparticles in the deposit. Energy-dispersive spectroscopy measurement shows the changes of weight percentage of elements available in the substrate. The surface roughness of the deposit was improved with the addition of CuO, it packs the gap between two grains and offers smooth finish and as the result the surface properties are modified. Microhardness of the substrate was improved for the substrate added with nano-CuO. The corrosion resistance of the substrate was improved when compared to the substrate produced using electroless Ni–P binary coating. Zwitterionic surfactant reduces the agglomeration of nanoparticles during chemical reaction and allows the particles to coat only on the target. Similarly, this technique can be implemented in the production of other composites in electroless coatings.