Electrodeposition of Fe-Sn from the chloride-based electrolyte

Abstract

The conditions for electrodeposition of Fe-Sn alloys from a novel, environmentally friendly, ferrous chloride-based electrolyte were studied. The influence of the pH on the electrolyte stability and deposit stoichiometry was discussed. Anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV), XRD and SEM/EDX were used to characterize the electrodeposited phases. The results from ASVs indicated the possibility to deposit at least two different phases at high overpotentials. Hull cell depositions in an electrolyte with a Sn to Fe ratio 1:1 and a pH value of 2.8 showed regular deposition of Fe-Sn. Fe-rich deposits (54.84 at %) were obtained from an electrolyte with Sn to Fe ratio 1:10. The XRD results were compatible with the electrochemical investigations. In all studied samples β-Sn, FeSn2 and Fe5Sn3 were detected. The presence of ferromagnetic Fe5Sn3 was not influenced by the Sn to Fe ions ratio in the electrolyte.