Fe-Based Magnetic Alloy Electrodeposition for Thin Films and Template Based Nanostructures

Abstract

The electrochemical fabrication of the Fe-based soft magnetic CoFe alloy and the shape memory active Fe-Pd alloy is reported. We examine the influence of electrolyte composition and deposition regime or post treatment on morphology, composition and structural development of the deposits. Up to 10 µm thick CoFe films with 55 at.% Fe were achieved from simple and additive adjusted electrolytes by potentiostatic or alternating potential deposition regime. Micropatterned deposits of smooth surface morphology and high saturation magnetization applicable as magnetic field gradient generator can be prepared best by the combination of SDS additive and alternating potential regime. The Fe-Pd alloy has been deposited and heat treated to achieve a composition with 30 at.% Pd and to adjust the crystal structure. For thin films and nanowires the transition from bcc to fcc phase is accomplished. This represents a good starting point towards shape memory active materials and their further physical characterization.