Characterization of Cr–ZrO2 composite coatings electrodeposited from Cr(III) bath

The aim of this work was to incorporate ZrO 2 particles into a Cr matrix within the research work aimed at obtaining metal matrix composite coatings (Cr–ZrO 2 ) under direct current and to evaluate their protective properties. A Cr–ZrO 2 composite coating was deposited from an electrolyte based on trivalent chromium sulphate with formate-urea as a complexing agent containing various concentrations of ZrO 2 . Cross-section investigations have revealed that ZrO 2 particles incorporated into the Cr coating are uniformly distributed. The results indicate that ZrO 2 particles influence the microhardness, morphology and corrosion behaviour of Cr–ZrO 2 composite coatings obtained from the Cr(III) bath.