Electrodeposition and characterisation of Ag–ZrO2 electroplated coatings

Ag–ZrO2 electroplated coatings were produced using a classical DC technique in a silver cyanide bath with added ZrO2 particles. Plating parameters, particle concentration and the stirring rate of the bath were systematically investigated in order to calculate the incorporation rate Vp of the particles in the deposit. It was found that the relationships between Vp, current density and stirring rate were related to the particle concentration in the bath. Moreover, it was established that the mechanical and tribological properties of coating composite, like hardness, friction coefficient and wear resistance increased with the increase in incorporation rate Vp.