Optimization of operational parameters and bath control for electrodeposion of Ni-Mo-B amorphous alloys

Abstract

Optimization of operational parameters of an electrodeposition process for deposition of boron-containing amorphous metallic layer of nickel-molybdenum alloy onto a cathode from an electrolytic bath having nickel sulfate, sodium molybdate, boron phosphate, sodium citrate, sodium-1-dodecylsulfate and ammonia for pH adjustments to 9.5 has been studied. Detailed studies of the efects on bath temperature, mechanical agitation, cathode current density and anode format have led to optimum operational conditions for obtaining satisfactory alloy deposits. The highest cathode current efficiency for deposition of the alloy was about 69% for cylindrical and 64% for rectangular platinum anode while working at bath temperature 80ºC, cathode rotation 15 rpm and cathode current density 100 mA cm-2. A voltammetric method for automatic monitoring and control of the process was proposed.

Keywords

• electrodeposition
• electrolytic baths
• nickel-molybdenum alloys
• amorphous alloys