Potential Modulated Multilayer Deposition of Multisegment Cu/Ni Nanowires with Tunable Magnetic Properties

Potential modulated multilayer deposition has been used to fabricate a series of multisegment Cu/Ni nanowires with diameters in the range of 40−140 nm. We show how the composition and microstructure are dependent on the deposition potential. The aspect ratio of the ferromagnetic nickel segments was varied from 0.1 (disk-shaped) to 2.5 (rod-shaped). The coercivity and remanence of the nanowires are strongly dependent on the diameter and aspect ratio as well as on dipolar coupling between the ferromagnetic segments. Micromagnetic simulations were used to model the magnetization hysteresis loops. These results show how potential modulated multilayer deposition can be used to tailor the properties of ferromagnetic particles.