Magnetic field effects on electrodeposition

The area of magnetic electrochemistry is reviewed, with emphasis on the physical mechanisms involved. Magnetic fields can be used during electrodeposition to enhance the deposition rate of magnetic or nonmagnetic species. The effect is attributed to the Lorentz force j boolean ANDB which creates a transverse flow that disrupts the depletion layer near the electrode. The morphology of radially grown electrodeposits is sensitive to magnetic fields when the Lorentz force interferes with natural convection. Fields may also induce atomic-scale texture in alloy films. Some outstanding problems in the field are highlighted. The intersection of magnetism and electrochemistry is an interesting interdisciplinary area which combines several distinct topics, Here we briefly review the whole area, emphasizing magnetic field effects on the electrodeposition of films of magnetic and nonmagnetic materials.