A Novel Effect of Solanum Tuberosum/Zn-30Al-7Ti Sulphate Modified Coating on UNS G10150 Mild Steel Via Dual-anode Electrodeposition Route

Abstract

UNS G10150 steel was electrodeposited with Zn-30Al-7%Ti, in the presence of solanum tuberosum, under sulphate condition, via dual anode route. The microstructures of the deposited layers were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscope and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The microhardness properties and wear characteristics were performed using a diamond based microhardness tester and a CERT reciprocating sliding tester. The microstructure revealed a massive structural transformation with hexagonal dendritic and whisker-like structure for the Zn-30Al-7%Ti coating. There was a significant rise in surface micro hardness values of the co-deposited layers, due to the presence of hard phase TiO2 particles, and solanum precipitation. The surface strengthening effect induced by solanum, and Al/TiO2 addition, with the presence of Zn2Al3Ti2, could be responsible for low plastic deformation and improved hardness of the coating. It is established that the electrodeposition route via dual anode of Zn-Al-Ti with adsorbed fluid on UNS G10150 steel can be used to improve the surface hardness values, aesthetic properties and wear resistance.