Structure and properties of Ni-Co alloys electrodeposited from methanesulfonate electrolytes

Comparative analysis of the structure and properties of Ni-Co alloys deposited from methanesulfonate and sulfate electrolytes showed that coatings produced from the methanesulfonate electrolyte are characterized by a more distorted crystalline lattice and enhanced physicochemical properties. The distinctive feature ofthe methanesulfonate electrolyte is its weak buffer properties that results in the formation in the near-electrode space the great amount of hydroxide compounds embedded in the cathode deposit. These particles adsorbing at crystallite boundaries complicate the dislocation yield and the crystallite growth. As a result of that, the electrodeposition of coatings from the methanesulfonate electrolyte gives deposits with the increased microhardness and internal stresses. The excess amount of the nonmetallic phase in the intercrystalline space can be used for the purpose of making deposits with the required magnetic properties. Electrodeposition of such coatings can be used during the production of magnetic screens and magnetic circuits.