Properties of Ni and Ni–Fe nanowires electrochemically deposited into a porous alumina template

The comparative analysis of the electrochemical deposition of Ni and Ni–Fe nanowires (NWs) into ordered porous alumina templates is presented. The method developed allows for obtaining NWs of 50 ± 5 nm in diameter and 25 μm in length, i.e., with an aspect ratio of 500. XRD data demonstrate the polycrystalline nature of Ni and Ni–Fe in a face-centered cubic close-packed lattice. Both fabricated materials, Ni and Ni–Fe, have shown ferromagnetic properties. The specific magnetization value of Ni–Fe NWs in the alumina template is higher than that of the Ni sample and bulk Ni, also the Curie temperature of the Ni–Fe sample (790 K) is higher than that of the Ni sample one or bulk Ni

The Interrelation of Synthesis Conditions and Wettability Properties of the Porous Anodic Alumina Membranes

The results of studies on the wettability properties and preparation of porous anodic alumina (PAA) membranes with a 3.3 ± 0.2 μm thickness and a variety of pore sizes are presented in this article. The wettability feature results, as well as the fabrication processing characteristics and morphology, are presented. The microstructure effect of these surfaces on wettability properties is analyzed in comparison to outer PAA surfaces. The interfacial contact angle was measured for amorphous PAA membranes as-fabricated and after a modification technique (pore widening), with pore sizes ranging from 20 to 130 nm. Different surface morphologies of such alumina can be obtained by adjusting synthesis conditions, which allows the surface properties to change from hydrophilic (contact angle is approximately 13°) to hydrophobic (contact angle is 100°). This research could propose a new method for designing functional surfaces with tunable wettability. The potential applications of ordinary alumina as multifunctional films are demonstrated