Laser-enhanced electrodeposition of nickel coatings

Optimal conditions for a laser-enhanced electrodeposition of nickel coatings have been specified. Comparative results of structure and mechanical properties of electrically deposited nickel coatings produced by a laser-enhanced galvanostatic method and without laser emission were analysed. It was found that laser medium wave IR radiation has a local thermal effect on the process of electrodeposition and stimulates formation of a nickel coating structure which is of a more equilibrium state, less defective and has reduced internal stress in the area of local laser heating. Studies of plating rate showed a 1.4 times increase for nickel coatings in conditions of laser-enhanced electrodeposition due to reduction of common cathode overpotentional and increase of cathode metal efficiency, that involves generation of a more coarse microcrystal structure. Results of studies of the laser radiation effect on structure and properties of nickel coatings show potential for increased adhesion of electrodeposited coatings with a copper substrate.