Green and Controllable Preparation of Cu/Zn Alloys Using Combined Electrodeposition and Redox Replacement

This study outlines a novel and sustainable electrodeposition–redox replacement (EDRR) method to produce Cu/Zn alloys using simulated hydrometallurgical Zn solution containing 200 ppm Cu, 65 g/L Zn, 10 H2SO4. The results indicate that by tailoring the EDRR parameters, like deposition time, agitation conditions, with controllable properties including chemical composition, microstructures, colorations, crystalline phases can be readily obtained. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis shows coherent films grow from separate nanoscale particles produced during initial cycles. Furthermore, corrosion performance of prepared is tunable changing through variation operating conditions. For example, deposits Zn-rich (CuZn5, Cu5Zn8) obtained short redox times without resulted in relatively poor resistance. In contrast, Cu-rich (Cu0.75Zn0.25, Cu0.85Zn0.15) enhanced were achieved prolonged and/or application magnetic stirring. Unlike traditional electrodeposition, does not involve any complexing agents currently underutilized solutions used as potential raw materials. Overall, suggests promising approach achieve manufacturing an improved circular economy metals.