Mechanical anisotropy in electrodeposited nanocrystalline metal/metal composite foams

Electrodeposition can be used to create new types of nanocrystalline metal/metal composites. In addition to increasing the strength and stiffness of conventional metal foams, electrodeposition also has the effect of introducing mechanical anisotropy to the cellular architecture. Because of electromagnetic shielding effects, outer ligaments receive more electrodeposited material than inner ligaments, creating a gradient in structural reinforcement. This study provides a first examination of the compressive strength and stiffness anisotropy introduced by nanocrystalline electrodeposition.