Large-area self-ordered aluminium sub-micrometre dot arrays prepared by electropolishing on polycrystalline aluminium at constant current

The effects of electropolishing on the sub-micrometre structure pattern on the surface of polycrystalline aluminium were investigated. Under constant current, the electropolishing process results in large-area uniform sub-micrometre dot arrays despite the polycrystalline aluminium surface. Effects of temperature on the pattern of the surface structures were also investigated. Experimental temperature was shown to have a great influence on the structure pattern. When the electropolishing temperature increases, the structure of aluminium surface tends to transform from a dot pattern to stripe one and then to a corrosion structure.

SEM image of electropolished aluminium under a constant current at different temperature of 20, 40, 60 and 80 °C, respectively.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Large-area sub-micrometre dot arrays on polycrystalline aluminium were obtained.
► We control the condition under constant current in various temperatures.
► The relationship between surface pattern and experimental temperature is investigated.