Structuring of electrodeposits with permanent magnet arrays

P. Dunne, - R. Soucaille, - K. Ackland, - J. M. D. Coey

School of Physics, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland

Abstract
Metal electrodeposits reflect the pattern of magnetic field created at the cathode by a magnet array. The effect is explained by magnetic pressure, which modifies the thickness of the cation diffusion layer governing mass transport. An inverse effect, when a strongly paramagnetic but non-electroactive cation, such as Dy³⁺ is present in the electrolyte, is related to inhibition of convection of water liberated at the cathode by the magnetic field gradient. Magnetic structuring depends on the relative susceptibility of the electroactive species and the non-electroactive background. Figs 9, Refs 33.