Influence of Positional Isomeric Spacers of Naphthalene Derivatives on Ni–W Alloy Electrodeposition: Electrochemical and Microstructural Properties
U. Pramod Kumar, Tongxiang Liang, C. Joseph Kennady, Raju Nandhakumar, Jayaraj Prabhu
Abstract
), surface properties, elemental composition, functional groups, and structurs of the resultant coatings were analyzed by means of Tafel and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The bare Ni-W alloy deposition resulted in a loose microstructure with higher porosity density (12.2%), while that of additive-doped plating electrolytes resulted in a compact and dense microstructure with lesser porosity density (6.3%) and minimal porosity density (3.7%) as for Ni-W/OPD and Ni-W/PPD alloy coatings, respectively. Improved corrosion parameters presented superior corrosion characteristics of Ni-W alloy coatings from an additive (PPD)-induced bath, i.e., Ni-W/PPD. Synergetic adsorption of imine groups (N atoms), hydroxyl groups (O atoms), and aromatic electron clouds and reduction in steric hindrance produced by a larger isomeric spacer strengthened the surface adsorption of additives, yielding a fine nanocrystalline Ni-W coating with reduced porosity and well-refined grains, implying the outstanding shielding effect. Results of FESEM, AFM, and XRD analyses revealed a complete cohesion between two neighboring islands, resulting in a fine planar structure with minimal coating defects for Ni-W/PPD coatings, authenticating the corrosion parameters.