Compositional control of Fe_xPt_(1-x) nanowires by electrodeposition

Fe_xPt_(1-x) nanowire arrays embedded in porous alumina membranes with controlled diameters and high aspect ratios were fabricated by the pulse electrodeposition method in a novel bath with a simple composition. The composition of Fe_xPt_(1-x) nanowires can be highly controlled by the negative deposition voltage and the pulse duration. A growth mode of alternating Fe and Pt composition within wires is observed for electrodeposition in different periods of pulse time. The space separation between the iron-rich layer and the platinum-rich layer contributes to the relatively low coercivity of Fe_xPt_(1-x) nanowire arrays with an atomic ratio of 1:1.