Structure and magnetic properties of CoxCu1−x nanowires in self-assembled arrays

CoCu alloy nanowire arrays were ac-pulse electrodeposited into porous anodic aluminum oxide. The effect of off-time between pulses and Cu concentration on the magnetic properties, crystalline structure and weight percentage of CoxCu1−x alloy nanowires have been studied by alternating gradient force magnetometer (AGFM), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) and energy dispersed spectrometry (EDS), respectively. Increasing the off-time between pulses decreased the weight percentage of Co in the range of (x = 0.84 − 0.24). Results of EDS were in accordance with saturation magnetization per unit area of the samples. Coexistence of a moderate off-time and Cu concentration provided excellent conditions for fabrication of the composite nanowires which were proved by XRD patterns.

► Role of non-magnetic Cu on the microstructure and magnetic properties of CoxCu1−x nanowires.
► Composition variation through ac pulse electrodeposition.
► Replacement of Co with Cu by electroless phenomenon during the off-time between pulses.