Controlling Magnetism of Diamond Powder Metallization using Electro-less Cobalt/Nickel Plating

In this study we attempt to develop an unprecedented approach to metallize diamond powder (DP) for diamond wire sawing (DWS) industry using electro less plating of cobalt/nickel (ELP Co/Ni) alloy without the need of additional electroplating step. This single step method allows efficient DP metallization process while maintaining good magnetic property. More importantly, the magnetism of resultant ELP Co/Ni film is easily manipulated by simply controlling the stoichiometry of metal precursors in ELP bath. The morphology, chemical composition and magnetic property of ELP Co/Ni film on the DP are carefully characterized. Tacking-on-density of DP on steel wire is proportional to the magnetism of ELP Co/Ni DP. Our study provides a simple, controllable and cost-effective process for advanced metallization of DP for DWS.