Electroplating NiW and NiRe alloys as functional alternative coatings - NiWRe-Alloys

Project summary

Objectives: The main objective is the development of new electrolytes for the electrochemical deposition of Nickel-Tungsten (NiW) and Nickel-Rhenium (NiRe) functional layers. Potential applications: The layers will be able to substitute hazardous Chromium (VI) electrolytes widely employed for corrosion and wear resistance. The filling of polymer microstructures will enable the substitution of expensive gold as X-ray absorbing material in medical imaging and non-destructive testing. Impact and benefits: The introduction of NiW and NiRe as X-ray absorbing material will have a huge impact for the market introduction of a new medical imaging modality called dark-field imaging through which e.g. diseases related to the degradation of lung alveoli such as chronic obstructary pulmonary disease can be made detectable in an early stage through classic radiography. The substitution of chrome (VI) contributes significantly to environmental protection and better working condition for employee.