Mass-transport effects on texture formation of nickel electrodeposits

Mass-transport effects on the degree of perfection of the preferred orienta tion of electrodeposited Ni are taken into account in this research. Lamina r and turbulent flow conditions were considered in rotating disk electrode and natural convection systems. A clear correlation emerges between the amo unt of [111] preferred orientation and the cathodic current efficiency, the latter being determined by a combination of hydrodynamic conditions and to tal electrodeposition current density. Once the limiting current density fo r the concomitant hydrogen evolution reaction is known experimentally, the cathodic current efficiency can be related in a straightforward way to the product of the hydrodynamic boundary layer thickness and the total electrod eposition current density. This product is negatively correlated with the d egree of preferred orientation perfection. A simple semi-empirical correlat ion follows between operating conditions and crystallographic properties of Ni deposits. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.