Codeposition of SiC particles with electrolytic cobalt in the presence of Cs+ ions

Electrodeposition of SiC particles with cobalt matrix in the presence of cesium ions was studied. The influence of Cs+ concentration (0–37.6 mM) on the cathodic polarization curves was determined in galvanostatic and potentiodynamic measurements. It was found that the presence of Cs+ in the solution enhanced adsorption of Co2+ ions on SiC, but preferential cesium adsorption occurred simultaneously. The last phenomena resulted in cesium incorporation in the composite coating. Surface charge of SiC powder and amounts of functional groups on SiC surface were determined. The particles incorporation into deposits was only little dependent on cesium concentration in the bath. Structure of the composite coatings was studied by microscopic observations. Microhardness of the deposits was also determined.