Work of adhesion in ZrO2-liquid metal systems

Using the sessile drop technique for the measurement of contact angles, the work of adhesion of polycrystalline cubic ZrO2 in contact with various liquid metals was determined. Based on these experimental values, a model for the evaluation of the work of adhesion is proposed. According to this model the wetting of ZrO2 by the metals indium, tin, bismuth and lead is established by Van der Waals dispersion binding forces. For the transition metals silver, copper, nickel, cobalt and iron a chemical equilibrium bond between the liquid metal and the oxygen ion of the surface oxide is created at the interface,. In this case the value of the work of adhesion is related to the enthalpy of formation of the oxide of the metal. 14 refs.