Micro-structured copper electrodeposition in inhomogeneous magnetic fields

It is well known that in various electrochemical systems the mass transfer and also the morphology and the structure of the electrodeposits can be influenced by the proper application of magnetic fields. One of the main reasons seems to be the convection induced by the resulting magnetic forces. Lorentz forces have been used to tailor the electrodeposition of metals for quite a while. Only recently, an improved understanding of the convection forced was gained that turned out to be more complex than expected, even in simple geometries [1]. Additionally, the influence of magnetic gradient forces on the preparation of micro-structured metal deposits on field-gradient electrodes has been discussed in the literature [2]. These electrodes consist of magnetic elements such as permanent magnets or magnetized ferromagnetic materials which are arranged beneath the surface of the working electrode. Here, however, besides the magnetic gradient force, also the Lorentz force might influence the deposition process. The presentation will summarize new numerical simulations, analytical findings and experimental results in order to discuss the influence of the different magnetic forces involved and will discuss the prospects towards smaller deposition structures [3,4].

[1] G. Mutschke et al., Electrochim. Acta 55 (2010) 1543.

[2] K. Tschulik et al., Electrochem. Comm. 11 (2009) 2241.

[3] G. Mutschke et al., Electrochim. Acta 55 (2010) 9060.

[4] K. Tschulik et al., Electrochim. Acta 56 (2010) 297.