A Multifunctional Material Based on ZrC Modification Enhances the Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance of Ni–W–P Alloy Coatings

(PC@ZrC) composite material was prepared to enhance the corrosion resistance of the coating system. ZrC was modified with polydopamine (PDA) to improve its compatibility with the system. Subsequently, cerium oxide with a corrosion-inhibiting effect was introduced to form a multifunctional composite material. This composite material was integrated into the coating system using a simple deposition method. The effects of the composite on the surface morphology, phase structure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance of the Ni-W-P coating were investigated. The results show that Ni-W-P/PC@ZrC coating surfaces are dense and uniform among all the composite coatings, with no obvious defects. The average coefficient of friction is reduced by 30.3% compared with the pure coating, and the impedance value is nearly three times that of the pure coating. This is because the excellent dispersibility of PC@ZrC enables it to be evenly dispersed in the coating and fill the defects, giving the Ni-W-P/PC@ZrC coating excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. The dual protection effect of PDA and cerium oxide at the same time gives Ni-W-P/PC@ZrC coating excellent long-term corrosion resistance.