Interfacial structure and enhanced adhesion between anodized ZrO2 nanotube films and Zr substrates by sedimentation of fluoride ions

► Anodized ZrO2 nanotubes with enhanced adhesion to substrates were obtained by sedimentating F−. ► The nanotube films anodized with F− sedimentated procedure consist of two layers. ► The compact layer between nanotubes and Zr consists of ZrO2 without fluoride-rich compound.