Electrocrystallization of Copper Powders from Dimethylsulphoxide Aqueous Solutions

The study investigates the electroprecipitation of copper powder through the cathodic reduction of an electrolyte solution containing copper(II) nitrate trihydrate and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). The primary objective is to analyze how varying electrolysis conditions, such as current density, electrolyte concentration, and temperature, affect the dimensional characteristics of the produced copper powder. To characterize the size and shape of the copper particles, electron microscopy is employed, while the qualitative composition of the powders is assessed using thermogravimetric methods. The findings indicate that the use of DMSO as a solvent enhances the electrochemical stability during the reduction process, facilitating the production of finely divided copper powders. This research contributes to the understanding of the structural and property relationships of copper powders, highlighting the importance of using aprotonic organic solvents in electrochemistry for metal extraction without unwanted reactions. Through this exploration, the work aims to further the applications of copper powders in the development of new functional materials. The results demonstrate significant implications for electrochemical practices and material science. One of the primary conclusions of the study is the effectiveness of DMSO in improving the synthesis process of copper powders.