Magnetic Properties of CoP Films Prepared by Electroless Plating with Simultaneous Electrolysis

Changes in the magnetic properties of electroless plated CoP films were studied. The microstructures and/or compositions of films changed when electrolysis was performed simultaneously with electroless plating. In particular, a decrease in coercivity and an increase in the saturation magnetization observed in a CoP film with a coercivity of 580 Oe were due to the appearance of flat, Co-rich single-crystal grains. The magnetic properties of CoP films are changed together with the microstructure upon electrolysis. Electrolysis performed simultaneously with electroless plating is therefore an effective method for controlling the magnetic properties of electroless plated thin films.