The effect of process parameters on copper powder particle size and shape produced by electrolysis method

Abstract

In this study, an electrolyzing device for the production of metal powders was designed and fabricated. The production of copper powders was performed using a variety of current densities, anode-cathode distances and power removal times. The effect of these parameters on powder particle size and shape was determined. Particle size was measured using a laser diffraction unit while the powder shape was determined by SEM. Experimental results show that an increase in current density leads to a decrease in powder particle size. In addition particle shape changed from globular dendritic to acicular dendritic with increasing the current density. Distance between the cathode and anode also showed a similar influence on powder particle size and shape. An increase in time of powder removal led to an increase in powder particle size, as the shape changed from acicular dendritic to globular dendritic.