Magnetic Properties and Structures of Electrodeposited Iron Films

It is shown that the magnetic properties, structure, and residual stress of Fe films electrodeposited from iron (II) chloride solution are strongly dependent on electrodeposition conditions such as the applied current density and solution temperature. The applied current was varied from 5 to 100 mA/cm², and the solution temperature was also varied from 20°C to 60°C. Under these conditions, lower coercive forces were obtained at lower current densities and higher solution temperatures, and it appeared that the residual stress was the dominant factor in the magnetic properties of the films. The value of the Q factor of a coil composed of Cu wire coated with these Fe films was measured; the Q factor was found to vary over the range of deposition conditions studied, and was dependent on the coercive force.