There is a need for the development of green coatings for weapons systems that minimize human health and environmental impact, while still providing protection from wear and erosion. Currently, many weapon system components are coated with hard chrome, which requires the use of high concentration hexavalent chrome baths, is extremely hazardous to the environment, and has significant occupation health risks. Deposition of refractory metals from ionic liquids provides the potential to meet these requirements as an alternative to hard chrome plating. However, a fundamental understanding of the molecular electrodeposition process is needed to develop robust electroplating parameters.

 

key words

Electrochemistry; Electrodeposition; Refractory metals; Ionic liquids; Reaction pathway; Inorganic chemistry; Materials chemistry; Surface chemistry;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants