Electrochemical deposition of silver from 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate

Silver was successfully electrodeposited from the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate ([EMIm][TfO]) containing silver ions in various concentrations. The electrochemical windows of the electrolytes were determined by cyclic voltammetry. Moreover, the conductivity and the viscosity–density product were studied with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM). Potentiodynamic and potentiostatic depositions were performed at different temperatures. The morphology of the deposited Ag layers depends on temperature and concentration. Thus, by choosing the right experimental conditions one can optimize the properties of the deposited layers. The thus obtained layers can be used in different surface finishing processes, such as in decorative plating, catalysis or for electrical contacts.

► Influence of temperature and Ag(I) concentration on properties of solutions.
► Intermediary Ag(I) concentrations exhibit high conductivity and rough morphologies.
► Electrode reaction of Ag(I) in [EMIm][TfO] follows quasireversible kinetics.
► Current efficiencies of Ag(I) electroreduction varied between 80 and 100%.