Structure of Composite Layers Reinforced with SiC Particles Obtained by Electrochemical Deposition

Abstract

The paper reports on a study regarding the structure of composite layers obtained by electrochemical deposition. The depositions were achieved in a bath formed of a mixture of aqueous solutions of iron salts (iron chloride), cobalt (cobalt sulphate) and solid particles of silicon carbide (SiC) in suspension. Following the electrochemical deposition on composite structures are formed as a thin layer with a metallic matrix (FeCo alloy), reinforced with hard particles of SiC. The structure of the composite layer is uniform and very fine, with crystalline granules under 500 nm. The electrochemically deposited FeCo alloy representing the metallic matrix of the composite layer has a high micro-hardness (864 HV), superior to the same alloy obtained by casting.