Structure properties of Fe nanowire arrays fabricated by electrodeposition

Fe nanowire arrays were fabricated in porous anodic alumina membranes by electrodeposition. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) were used to study the appearance, microstructure and composition of the Fe nanowires. In the middle part of the nanowires, the microstructure is uniform with smooth surface. At the endpoint between the nanowire and electrode, however, the nanowires are composed of bulk grains with distinct clearances. A chain of sphere model, combined with the microstructure, was employed to explain the reverse magnetization process at the bottom of the nanowires, and the deflection of the magnetic moments.