Crystallite size measurement and micro-strain analysis of electrodeposited copper thin film using Williamson-Hall method

Abstract

The improvement in hydrophilicity of copper coating on aluminium for better antimicrobial activity can be achieved by increase in surface energy. The surface energy depends on the micro-strain of the coating. Micro-strain in the coatingincreases with reduction in crystallite size. In this investigation, the crystallite size in the electrodeposited copper coating was varied by varying deposition current density. Crystallite size and micro-strain in the coating were estimated using Williamson-Hall method. Values of crystallite sizes using TEM micrographs were in agreement with that using Williamson-Hall method. Also, presence of nano-Twins in the coating contributed for micro-strain in copper coating. © 2016 Author(s).