Modulated morphology of Fe foils electrodeposited at a high current density by adding cations

A modified chloride bath being suitable for high speed electrodeposition was used to deposit smooth and flexible Fe foils. Their surface morphology and crystal structures were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The results showed that the morphology and crystal structures of Fe foils changed drastically in the presence of Mn2+, Sm3+, La3+ and Fe3+ cations. Several morphology shapes were prepared in this paper. This will allow for further studying the effect of surface morphology on catalytic, magnetic and corrosive properties.

► Fe foils were electrodeposited at a very high current density of 100 A dm−2.
► Surface morphology of Fe foils can be modulated by Mn2+, Sm3+ and La3+ cations.
► The XRD data suggest that these cations can also control the crystal texture of Fe foils.