The electrocodeposition of nickel alumina nanocomposites was investigated using an impinging jet electrode. The effects of jet flow rate, particle loading, and current density on the particle incorporation were studied. The amount of codeposited particles was determined using both electrogravimetric measurements and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. A maximum particle incorporation of about 5 wt % was found for a flow rate of 2.5 L min(-1) and a current density of 10 A dm(-2). The microstructure of the coatings was investigated via X-ray diffraction. As a result of increasing current density and particle incorporation, a loss of (100) texture and a relative enhancement of the (111), (220), and (311) reflections appeared. The microhardness of the nickel films increased significantly with the inclusion of alumina nanoparticles. (c) 2007 The Electrochemical Society.