Electrophoretic deposition of nickel, iron and aluminum nanoparticles on carbon fibers

The electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of nickel (Ni), iron (Fe) and aluminum (Al) nanoparticles fabricated by an active hydrogen plasma evaporation method on the surface of carbon fibers was investigated, which will allow the obtained composites to be applied as practical catalysts or electrodes. SEM observations show that the Ni nanoparticles can build up a thick EPD coating with some cracks on the surface of carbon fibers, and the analyses of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and BET specific surface area indicate that fine particles from the as-received Ni powders were finally deposited after the EPD process without crystal growth. The surface oxidation of Fe and Al nanoparticles takes serious effect on the EPD process and the morphology of the as-prepared coatings.