The Structure and Mechanical Properties of Electroless Nickel

Abstract

Effects of variations in phosphorus content of electroless nickel from 4.6 to 9.4 w/o on structure, strength, ductility, and hardness were studied. Electron diffraction proved the crystallinity of many as‐plated alloys, and x‐ray data established a conventional precipitation hardening mechanism during heat treatment. Changes in properties after heat treatment at 200°–750°C have been correlated with structural changes shown by x‐ray diffraction and with those revealed in optical and electron back scatter micrographs. Abrupt changes in the structure, strength, and ductility of as‐plated alloys and of alloys heat treated at 750°C occurred at phosphorus contents of about 7%.