Nucleation and growth of nanoporous copper ligaments during electrochemical dealloying of Mg-based metallic glasses

Mg90−xCuxY10 glassy precursors have been used to synthesize nanoporous copper (NPC) by electrochemical dealloying in H2SO4 aqueous solution. The formation mechanism of NPC during electrochemical dealloying of Mg90−xCuxY10 metallic glasses is mainly governed by dissolution and diffusion processes at the precursor/solution interfaces. A diffusion growth model was provided to reveal a quantitative relationship between the ligament size and the dealloying conditions. The ligament size of NPC shows a linear correlation with Cu content in the glassy precursors. Moreover, the ligaments can be significantly coarsened with prolongation of leaching time or elevation of leaching temperature.

► The synthesis of nanoporous copper out of Mg90−xCuxY10 glassy alloys is reported. ► An approach of tailoring the microstructure of nanoporous copper is derived. ► The formation mechanism of nanoporous copper out of glassy alloys is clarified. ► Metallic glasses emerge as attractive precursors for synthesizing nanoporous metals.