Lead anodes are widely used in the electrowinning process of zinc and other metals. However, due to challenges such as the poor mechanical properties of lead, lead dissolution in the electrolyte, and the formation of anodic sludge, extensive research has been conducted to enhance their mechanical and electrochemical properties. Some studies have focused on alloying lead anodes with elements such as cobalt, silver, and antimony. This alloying approach has resulted in reduced lead dissolution in the electrowinning solution, improved corrosion resistance, and increased anode lifespan. Additionally, various manufacturing methods, including casting, hot pressing, and the application of ceramic coatings, have been explored to further improve anode properties. Despite these advances, challenges related to the uniform distribution of alloying elements and the stability of oxide layers on anode surfaces still require further investigation. In this study, Pb-W-Co3O4 composite anodes were produced and eva‎luated using the Accumulative Roll Bonding (ARB) process. ARB is a severe plastic deformation process used to produce materials with ultra-fine grain microstructures. This research aimed to optimize the mechanical and electrochemical properties of the anodes by utilizing ARB as a method of severe plastic deformation. To achieve this, Pb composites reinforced with W/Co3O4 particles at various weight percentages (0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 wt%) were produced and eva‎luated. The ARB process was conducted for up to 10 cycles, and the mechanical and microstructural properties of these composites were examined using microhardness testing, tensile testing, shear punch testing, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, the electrochemical properties of the anodes were analyzed using cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results indicated that the Pb-0.5%W-Co3O4 sample subjected to 10 ARB cycles exhibited optimal mechanical and microstructural properties. This sample showed a significant increase in tensile strength (2.17 times), yield strength (4.7 times), shear strength (3.6 times), and hardness (4.2 times) compared to pure lead under the same ARB cycles, although the strain decreased by 3.85 times. This improvement in mechanical properties was associated with enhanced dimensional stability, creep resistance, and operational lifespan of the anode. From an electrochemical perspective, increasing the powder content and ARB cycles improved these properties, but the best performance was observed in the sample with 0.5% additive and 10 ARB cycles due to mechanical limitations. This research demonstrates that the ARB method, combined with the optimal material composition, can lead to the production of high-performance composite anodes with desirable mechanical and electrochemical characteristics, contributing to the advancement of technology in this field.

مريم كرباسي

الهه اميرخاني

ابوذر طاهري زاده , مهدي علي زاده