In Situ Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Coated Copper: Boosting Superhydrophobicity, Conductivity, and Oxidation Resistance

Copper (Cu), known for its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, faces significant challenges due to its susceptibility to oxidation, which leads to the formation of nonconductive oxide layers that impair its performance. We present an in situ thermal reduction method to synthesize nitrogen-doped carbon coated copper (NC@Cu) with enhanced oxidation and corrosion resistance. Using a stable, nontoxic, and cost-effective dopamine derivative, catechol (CA), and phenylenediamine, we developed a polydopamine-like (PDL) coating on copper oxide (CuO). Upon pyrolysis under an inert atmosphere, this coating transforms into a nitrogen-doped carbon layer, while simultaneously reducing CuO to metallic Cu in a stepwise process, initially forming Cu₂O and then fully reducing to Cu. The resulting NC@Cu exhibits remarkable superhydrophobicity, enhanced conductivity, and exceptional resistance to oxidation and corrosion, attributed to the protective dense carbon layer. This study provides insights into the synergistic processes of PDL conversion into nitrogen-doped carbon and CuO reduction to Cu, offering a straightforward and practical passivation method for producing electrically conductive and oxidation-resistant copper with potential applications in harsh environments.