Preparation and characterization of Cu-Zro2 nanocomposite by DC method

Abstract

Cu-ZrO₂ nanocomposite coatings prepared by electrodeposition method. In bath solution containing different amount of ZrO₂ were studied. The structure, surface morphology, mechanical and corrosion resistance properties of nanocomposite are characterized by varies techniques. Cu-ZrO₂ composite coatings have higher micro hardness, compared to pure copper coating. Surface morphology of both Cu and Cu–ZrO₂ composite coatings were examined through Scanning electron microscopy. The results show that more number of zirconia particles incorporated into copper matrix and then smooth surface, finer grain sized. The incorporation of ZrO₂ particles reduces the particle size. It shows the closer particle-particle contact leads to pore free deposition. The X-ray diffraction was conformed the crystallite size and structure of the electrodeposited Cu and Cu–ZrO₂ composite coatings. The average crystallite size calculated from Scherrer equation was ~105 nm for copper and ~67 nm for Cu-ZrO₂ composites. The structure of electrodeposited Cu and Cu–ZrO₂ composite coatings were crystalline orthorhombic which was confirmed from the JCPDS standard. The corrosion resistance behavior of Cu–ZrO₂ composite is examined through Tafel polarization and impedance measurement studies in 3.5% NaCl. The result shows that the Cu–ZrO₂ composite coatings have more corrosion resistance than pure Cu coating.