Nickel segment-length dependent magnetic properties of Au–Ni–Au nanowires at low temperature fabricated by electrochemical deposition

Segmented wires (Au–Ni–Au) were synthesized by electrochemical deposition. Magnetic study was performed at 6 kOe field applied parallel to the wire long axis at 300 K and 2 K. Coercivity (Hc) and saturation magnetization (Ms) as a function of segment length (l) were constant for longer l (5≤l≤10 μm) at 300 K and 2 K. However, a peak in Hc was observed for l=2.4 μm at 300 K, whereas a decrease in Hc was found for shorter l. Ms followed a decreasing trend with decreasing segment length from 2.4 μm to 200 nm.

Graphical abstractSegmented Au–Ni–Au nanowires fabricated by electrochemical deposition. Coercivity and saturation magnetization as a function of Ni segment length (l) at 300 K and 2 K.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Au–Ni–Au nanowires with various Ni segments were synthesized in AAO templates. ► Structural analysis confirmed the formation of pure-phase, purely crystalline wires. ► Enhanced magnetic anisotropy of the nanowires was obtained at low temperatures. ► While Hc and Ms as a function of l followed decreasing trends at 300 K and 2 K.