Microstructural Characterization and Corrosion Behavior of Electroless Ni-Zn-P Thin Films

Abstract

Ternary Ni-Zn-P alloy thin films were electrolessly deposited on a carbon steel substrate from sulphate alkaline baths. The effect of deposition bath composition and process duration on the physical-chemical and corrosion characteristics of the obtained thin films was investigated. The thin films were characterized by EDAX analysis techniques and scanning electronic microscopy. Corrosion tests were performed in 3.5% sodium chloride solution and the corrosion current values were determined to be 4–12 μA, comparative to 15 μA for the uncoated steel sample.