Magnetic alignment of nickel-coated carbon fibers

Magnetic composites of nickel-coated carbon nanofibers have been successfully fabricated by employing a simple microwave-assisted procedure. The scanning electron microscopy images show that a complete and uniform nickel coating with mean size of 25 nm could be deposited on carbon fibers. Magnetization curves demonstrate that the prepared composites are ferromagnetic and that the coercivity is 96 Oe. The magnetic carbon nanofibers can be aligned as a long-chain structure in an external magnetic field.

Graphical abstractCarbon nanofibers were subjected to a two-step pretreatment, sensitization and activation. Carbon nanofibers were encapsulated by a uniform layer of nickel nanoparticles. The prepared composites are ferromagnetic and with a small value of coercivity. Upon such functionalization, the carbon nanofibers can be aligned in a relatively small external magnetic field.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights• A simple microwave-assisted procedure for the magnetic composite. • Dense layer of nickel on pretreated carbon nanofibers. • Ferromagnetic properties and low coercivity. • A long-chain aligned structure under magnetic field.