Electro-Synthesis of Cu-Nb Nanocomposites; Toward Novel Alloying of Immiscible Bimetals

Immiscible metals due to their inherent specs are insoluble over the steady state. Developing an innovative approach to this issue would be fascinating and challenge the overriding rules. Herein, we proffer the principles of synthesis of Cu-Nb nanocomposites using electrochemical deoxidation route. This method consists of the cathodic electrolysis of the nanoparticles Cu-Nb2O5 through the molten salt electrolyte medium; which lead to the oxygen-free nanocomposites following the reduction of Nb2O5 and atomic translocation of Cu/Nb. Analysis of as-synthesized specimens by X-ray diffraction implies the Nb2O5 is reduced into Nb and all reflections of Cu are shifted to low-angles. Moreover, elemental analysis by energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) illustrates the high solubility of Nb in Cu and Cu in Nb structure, which their crystallinity is consistent with the XRD. These findings confirm the electro-synthesis is a key technique for reduction of nanometer oxides, the substantial increase of solubility, and nano-alloying of immiscible metals.