Formation of two-dimensional ordered magnetic nanolattices in opal structures

A method of forming a two-dimensional ordered superlattice of magnetic nanoparticles in close-packed opal structures of silica (SiO$_2$) spheres has been developed. Nickel nanopowder with an average particle size of about 70 nm is used as a source of magnetic particles. Atomic-force and magnetic-force microscopy studies show that all magnetic particles are located in the interstices of the opal lattice, while the magnetization vectors of neighboring nickel particles can have different magnitudes and directions.