Abstract: Carbon nanotube was used as a reinforcement agent to prepare Ni-P matrix composite coating. The tribological behaviour of the composite coating was
examined on a reciprocating wear test machine. The surface morphologies before and after wear test were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the carbon nanotubes
are uniformly embedded in the matrix and one end protruded from the surface. The Ni-P-carbon nanotube composite coating has high wear resistance and self-lubrication. The CNTs layer in the
matrix protects the surface of the matrix from wearing. Meanwhile the incorporation of the CNTs suppresses the plastic deformation and enhances the mechanical properties of the coating.

Key words: carbon nanotube, Ni-P alloy, composite coating, tribological behavior