Dual-function film of ZnO doped into CrNi black coatings as solar absorbent and corrosion resistant

Renewable energy is one of the major global challenges towards a clean environment. In solar collectors, high absorption with low thermal emittance represents the main performance parameter during the characterization of the absorber films. This article provides an in-depth study of the co-deposition of Cr and Ni-doped by ZnO coatings and their influence on surface protection correlating it with the absorption of the produced surfaces. Results showed that Cr + Ni + ZnO composite film on Cu substrate outperformed traditional Cr film, in terms of surface smoothness, adhesion, corrosion resistance, bending resistance in addition to high solar absorption. Precisely, ZnO inserted into the Cr₇Ni₃ phase is the key for dual-performance high absorbent and resistant film of CrNi.