Properties of Copper Coating Electrodeposited from Pyrophosphate Bath

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the electrodeposition of copper coatings from pyrophosphate bath on pre-plated steel sheet substrates and the evaluation of their properties. The pyrophosphate electrolyte was prepared involving various constituents and with a great deal of attention for precise control of its pH value. A total of 7 samples were prepared based on the current density used, the addition of SiC nanoparticles, and the will to study the aging of copper coatings. All the prepared samples were pretreated before the plating process began and rinsed with distilled water after plating. The thickness of all the samples was measured non-destructively. For all the samples, specifically scheduled microhardness measurements were performed for 6 months starting from the first week after their preparation. The sample's metallography was further characterized by analyzing with optical microscopy, and the presence of composite particles as well as adhesion of the prepared Cu layer was analyzed by scanning electron microscope and electron dispersion X-ray spectra. The hardness of all prepared samples was compared and carefully observed for change over the given duration of time.