Effect of additional elements Ni and Cr on wetting characteristics of liquid Cu on zirconia ceramics Original Research Article

The effect of additions (Cr, Ni and 80Ni·20Cr) on the wetting characteristics of liquid Cu on ZrO2 have been studied using a sessile drop method. Analysis of reaction layers at a solidified droplet/ZrO2 interface have been performed. Additions of 80Ni·20Cr alloy or Cr alone reduce the contact angle of liquid Cu on ZrO2. The simultaneous addition of Ni and Cr can markedly improve the wettability of liquid Cu on ZrO2. According to SEM and EPMA observations, dissolution of the additions into liquid Cu droplets occurred. A uniform distribution of Ni throughout the Cu droplet and segregation of Cr at the Cu droplet/ZrO2 interface were observed in solidified specimens.