2e- Copper Electrolysis Jewelry

The global demand and production for copper are growing constantly. The traditional processes of refining and recycling copper waste become a significant source of pollution.

Compared to traditional copper recycling, the 2e- series proposed an alternative solution that is more aesthetic and eco-friendly via converting scrap coppers into copper crystal jewelry through electrolysis. The basic principle of copper electrolysis is to electrolyze a solution of sulfate with two copper electrodes. In this process, the anode (+) acts as a donor, and the cathode (-) acts as a receiver. The copper molecules are separated from the scrap copper (+) and aggregated on the negative copper part which gradually forms coral-like copper crystals.

By spending months experimenting with the copper electrolysis reaction, I explored the diversity of copper form which is influenced by the anode, cathode, voltage, current, and density of sulfate solution. The form of copper crystal could be controlled by with interfering these factors. 2e- was created to explore a new aesthetic form from industrial waste and encourage people to address material-recycling process innovation.