Preparation and magnetic properties of Ni80Fe20 nanowire arrays

Arrays of Ni80Fe20 nanowires were prepared by electrodeposition into nanosized pores of anodic alumina and polycarbonate membranes, using a two-electrode electrochemical cell. Nanoporous anodic alumina membranes were prepared in a two-step anodizing process of aluminium foils. The morphology of the samples was investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The structural characteristics of the samples were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD). Magnetic measurements were performed at room temperature, using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and showed the as-made samples to be magnetically soft. The magnetization curves are reversible indicating a high saturation field and low remanence. Magnetic anisotropy along the axis of the wire is present.