Product Overview
Iron Sputtering Target (Fe) is a conductive sputtering target used to deposit elemental thin films where purity, film cleanliness, and stable metallic sputtering behavior are important. For thin-film applications, the practical selection criteria are not limited to the target chemistry alone: purity grade, target density, dimensions, grain structure, surface finish, and backing configuration can all influence process stability and film quality.
Material and Deposition Characteristics
Because the target is electrically conductive, DC magnetron sputtering is often applicable, although pulsed-DC or other power modes may also be used depending on the deposition system and film target. For high-specification films, target grain structure, residual stress, and surface preparation can influence erosion uniformity and the morphology of the deposited layer. When higher power loading or system-specific mounting is involved, a bonded target assembly may also be considered.
Technical Data
| Parameter | Typical Value / Range | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Iron (Fe) | Defines film composition |
| Purity | 99.9% – 99.99% (3N – 4N) | Higher purity improves film quality |
| Density | ≥ 99% theoretical density | Ensures stable sputtering and low particle generation |
| Diameter | 25 – 300 mm (custom) | Fits various sputtering systems |
| Thickness | 3 – 6 mm | Affects deposition rate and target life |
| Bonding | Unbonded / Cu-backed (Indium/Elastomer) | Enhances heat dissipation |
| Material | Key Advantage | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Iron (Fe) | Strong ferromagnetism, cost-effective | Magnetic films, sensors |
| Nickel (Ni) | Corrosion resistance, stable magnetism | Magnetic alloys, coatings |
| Cobalt (Co) | High magnetic anisotropy | High-density storage |
| FeCo Alloy | High saturation magnetization | Advanced magnetic devices |
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is iron suitable for DC sputtering? | Yes, iron is conductive and compatible with DC magnetron sputtering. |
| Does magnetism affect sputtering performance? | Yes, iron’s ferromagnetism can influence plasma confinement, requiring optimized sputtering conditions. |
| Can the target be customized? | Yes, dimensions, purity levels, and bonding configurations can be tailored. |
| What backing plates are available? | Copper backing plates with indium or elastomer bonding are commonly used. |
| Which industries use iron sputtering targets? | Semiconductor, data storage, energy, coatings, and research sectors. |
Typical Thin-Film Applications
- Iron thin films for conductive, optical, catalytic, or functional coating development
- Semiconductor, energy, electronic, or laboratory PVD research depending on the element
- Projects requiring a pure elemental source in planar or custom target geometry
Target Configuration and Ordering Considerations
For quotation and manufacturability review, provide target size, thickness, purity or alloy composition, quantity, and the sputtering gun or cathode model if known. If a bonded assembly is required, include backing-plate material, bonding preference, and any dimensional tolerances, surface-finish needs, or inspection-document requirements. TFM can also review customer drawings or old-target samples for replacement builds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Iron sputtering targets be used with DC magnetron sputtering?
Yes. Conductive metallic targets are commonly processed with DC magnetron sputtering, although pulsed-DC or other modes may also be used depending on the equipment and film objective.
What purity grade should I choose for a Iron target?
The required purity should be selected from the contamination limits and performance needs of the deposited film. Higher purity can reduce unwanted impurities, but the optimum grade should match the application rather than default to the highest available level.
Why do density and microstructure matter for Iron targets?
Target density, grain structure, and residual stress can influence erosion behavior, process stability, and the morphology of the deposited film. These factors become more important as film-quality requirements become tighter.
Can a Iron target be bonded to a copper backing plate?
Yes. A bonded assembly may be used when the cathode design requires a backing plate or when improved support and heat transfer are desirable. The bonding method should be matched to target thickness and operating conditions.
What are common applications of sputtered Iron films?
Typical uses include conductive layers, metallization, reflective or protective coatings, and composition-specific PVD research. The exact application depends on the properties of the element and the final film stack.
What information should I send TFM for a custom Iron target?
Please provide target dimensions, thickness, purity, quantity, target style, backing-plate requirement, cathode model if known, and any tolerance, surface-finish, inspection, or documentation requirements.




Reviews
There are no reviews yet.