Electrodeposition of finely divided copper of uniform structure

Abstract

In the potentiostatic deposition of finely divided copper on a rod cathode in the over-voltage range 0.3–0.5 V the best approximation to the shape of the current vs time function is provided by a straight line. At overvoltages of 0.6 and 0.7 V an exponential and a power-type function, respectively, represent more closely experimental plots. The structure of the dendrites is determined by the magnitude of the overvoltage, and remains uniform over the whole thickness of the loose deposit, as is evidenced by micrographs of transverse sections through the cathode with the deposit. The particle size distribution, apparent density, and flowability of the electrodeposited powder are determined by the overvoltage of the cathodic process, and can be regulated by varying the parameters of galvanodynamic electrolysis.