The influence of additions on the electrodeposition of the alloy of Co - Zn from a new eutectic deep solvent

E-coating deposition of Co-Zn alloys presents a promising approach for creating multifunctional coatings that simultaneously enhance mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. In this study, a novel eutectic deep solvent (DES) composed of lithium chloride and 1,3-propanediol was developed and maintained at 80°C. This solvent was utilized for electrodepositing Co-Zn alloy coatings onto copper substrates. The coatings' composition, phase structure, and morphology were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical properties were assessed through cyclic voltammetry (CV) to investigate the effects of deposition temperature on composition and structural changes. Co-deposition of zinc and cobalt was achieved under galvanostatic conditions, resulting in high-quality Co-Zn alloy coatings with a compact morphology and a single phase when deposited at 80°C, with a current density of 0.012 mA/cm² over a duration of 2 hours. Additionally, the efficiency of the electrodeposition process improved with the incorporation of additives, specifically 10% H2O, TX100, and TW20.