Graded Ni–P–PTFE coatings and their potential applications

The effect of the ratio of a cationic surfactant concentration to PTFE concentration in the plating solution on the electroless Ni–P–PTFE deposition rate and on the PTFE content in the coatings has been investigated. The adhesion of the Ni–P–PTFE layer is significantly improved by gradually increasing the PTFE content from the substrate to the top surface. It has been demonstrated that these graded electroless Ni–P–PTFE coatings can reduce the formation of deposits on heat exchanger surfaces significantly.