| Abstract |
This study outlines a novel and sustainableelectrodeposition-redox replacement (EDRR) method to produceCu/Zn alloys using a simulated hydrometallurgical Zn solutioncontaining 200 ppm Cu, 65 g/L Zn, and 10 g/L H2SO4. Theresults indicate that by tailoring the EDRR parameters, likedeposition time, replacement time, and agitation conditions, Cu/Zn alloys with controllable properties including chemicalcomposition, microstructures, colorations, and crystalline phasescan be readily obtained. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)analysis shows that coherent Cu/Znfilms grow from separatenanoscale particles produced during the initial EDRR cycles.Furthermore, the corrosion performance of the prepared Cu/Znfilms is tunable by changing the crystalline phases through thevariation of operating conditions. For example, deposits containing Zn-rich phases (CuZn5,Cu5Zn8) obtained with short redoxreplacement times without agitation resulted in relatively poor corrosion resistance. In contrast, Cu-rich phases (Cu0.75Zn0.25,Cu0.85Zn0.15) with enhanced corrosion performance were achieved with prolonged redox replacement times and/or the application ofmagnetic stirring. Unlike traditional electrodeposition, the EDRR method does not involve any complexing agents and the currentlyunderutilized hydrometallurgical solutions were used as potential raw materials. Overall, the study suggests the EDRR method as apromising approach to achieve sustainable manufacturing of Cu/Zn alloys and an improved circular economy of metals. |
