Effects of electroless nickel process variables on quality requirements

The project objective was to determine the effects of production procedures on the characteristics of electroless nickel coatings. Deposition rate, phosphorus content, hardness, appearance, and metal distribution are reported for deposits from several hypophosphite type electroless nickel baths, both proprietary and non-proprietary. The baths were operated under a variety of conditions with variations of composition. Extensive data are given on the relation of deposit hardness to phosphorus content and to heat treatment at 100, 200, and 400 C. Some data are given relative to electroless Ni-B, Ni-P-Cu, and Ni-P-Mn alloys.