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Surface Preparation
In the case of
anodization
for the formation and analysis of nanoporus
templates the stock Al used has purities as high as 99.9%.[7] This is
impor-
tant as there are many types of aluminum alloys that may have alloying
concentrations below 1% by volume; and such alloys will react
differently
to the anodization process. Once the stock has been identified it must
be
preped and cleaned prior to anodization.
Generally speaking the formation of ordered
nanoporus arrays is a short
range procedure such that the sample is usually palm sized or smaller.
This can provide more secure shipping conditions via padded or
watertight
containers, however it is still a good idea to dip the stock in a mild
detergent
around 145C to remove any dust, oils or other surface impurities
deposited
during the handling and shipping process.[1] This includes finger
prints and
care must be taken to handle the stock under sterile conditions once it
has
been dipped.
After washing, the stock should be gently rinsed
with deionized water;
this will insure the removal of any detergent residues on the
surface.[6]
Some applications will require the stock to be etched; this is
accomplished
by dipping the stock into a bath of sodium hydroxide which removes a
thin
layer of aluminum and establishes a uniform surface prior to
anodization.[1]
Finally, if the stock was etched it will need to be desmutted which
involves
dipping it into an acidic solution to remove any constituent Al
particles on
the surface left over from the etching process. The electrolyte used in
the
anodization procedure is itself an acidic solution, however care should
be
taken to preserve the pH integrity by using stock that has been properly
prepared.
P. D. Wallace
UAF Spring 09'
Steve's Templates
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