Electrodeposition of SIC particles (technical powder) with nickel matrix in the presence of cesium ions (0-37.6 mM) was investigated. The influence of Cs+ concentration on cathodic polarization curves was determined in galvanostatic and potentiodynamic measurements. The presence of Cs+ in the solution enhanced in some extent adsorption of Ni2+ ions on SiC, but preferential cesium adsorption occurred simultaneously. The last phenomenon resulted in cesium incorporation in the composite coating. The particle content in the deposits (16-24 vol%) was governed by the amount of nickel ions adsorbed on SIC. Structure of the composite coatings was studied by microscopic observations. At highest Cs+ concentrations, incorporation of small SIC grains was inhibited. Microhardness of deposits (390-800 HV) was directly dependent on the SIC content in the coatings. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.