Copper strip oxidation is a common issue that may affect its conductivity, mechanical properties, and appearance. The following is an analysis of the causes of copper strip oxidation and corresponding countermeasures and suggestions:

1、 The main reason for copper strip oxidation

environmental factor

Humidity and temperature: High temperature and humidity environments can accelerate the oxidation reaction of copper (generating CuO or Cu ? O).

Corrosive media: Contact with acidic gases (such as H ? S, SO ?), salt spray (coastal or industrial areas), or chloride ions (such as seawater) can accelerate oxidation.

Oxygen exposure: Copper will naturally oxidize on its surface when exposed to oxygen in the air for a long time.

Material factors

Insufficient copper purity: Impurities such as sulfur and iron can form micro battery effects, accelerating local corrosion.

Surface defects: Scratches, pores, and other defects can increase the contact area with corrosive media.

process problems

Untreated: Copper strips that have not been passivated, coated, or plated are more prone to oxidation.

Production pollution: Residual oils, sweat stains, or chemical reagents during processing may cause oxidation.

Improper storage and transportation conditions

Stored in a damp and poorly ventilated warehouse, or not properly sealed and protected during transportation.

2、 Countermeasures to prevent copper strip oxidation

1. Material and process optimization

Select high-purity copper (such as oxygen free copper TU1/TU2) to reduce the catalytic effect of impurities on oxidation.

Add antioxidant elements, such as a small amount of silver (Ag) or tin (Sn), to improve corrosion resistance.

Surface treatment technology:

Passivation treatment: Use benzotriazole (BTA) or chromate passivation solution to form a protective film.

Electroplating/Coating: Tin plating, nickel plating, or coating with anti-oxidation coatings (such as acrylic resin).

Anti oxidation oil film: Short term protection can be achieved by using rust proof oil or wax coating.

2. Storage and transportation management

Environmental control: Storage environment humidity ≤ 60%, temperature 10-30 ℃, avoid coexistence with acidic and alkaline substances.

Sealed packaging: Vacuum packaging or nitrogen filled packaging is used to isolate oxygen and moisture.

Desiccant usage: Place silica gel or molecular sieve inside the packaging to absorb moisture.

3. Use environmental protection measures

Install dehumidification equipment: Use dehumidifiers or air conditioners in humid environments.

Isolation of corrosive media: Avoid direct contact of copper strips with acidic gases or salt spray, and install protective covers if necessary.

Regular cleaning: Use alcohol or neutral cleaning agents to remove surface contaminants.

4. Regular maintenance and inspection

Regularly check the surface condition of the copper strip, and if slight oxidation is found, promptly wipe it with a soft cloth dipped in diluted hydrochloric acid (diluted), then rinse it with water and dry it.

It is recommended to check the packaging sealing of copper strips stored for a long time every six months.

3、 Treatment of oxidized copper strip

Slight oxidation (surface darkening):

Wipe with copper specific cleaner or citric acid solution to restore luster.

Severe oxidation (generating green copper rust CuCO ∝· Cu (OH) ?):

Mechanical polishing is used to remove the oxide layer, followed by passivation treatment.

If oxidation causes a decrease in performance (such as a decrease in conductivity), the copper strip needs to be replaced.

4、 Summary

The core of copper strip oxidation lies in isolating oxygen, humidity, and corrosive media. By optimizing materials, processes, storage conditions, and usage protection, the risk of oxidation can be significantly reduced. For oxidized copper strips, cleaning or replacement plans should be selected according to the severity, and protective measures should be improved simultaneously.

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