Mechanical properties of nanocrystalline nickel produced by electrodeposition

Nickel foils with nano-size grains were produced by electrodeposition using a sulfamate-based electrolyte. The pH of the electrolyte was varied within the 2.8 to 5.1 range. The crystallite size showed a minimum around pH = 4. 8. As grain size was reduced, the strength and strain hardening rate increa sed and the (100) texture became less prominent. In this paper results of t ensile testing at room temperature and -196 degrees C are discussed in term s of dislocation generation and motion. (C) 1999 Acta Metallurgica Inc.