Plasma electrolytic corrosion resistance

The effect of plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) treatment on the SCC of surface-modified magnesium alloys was studied [167]. PEO coating offered improved corrosion resistance. However, the barrier film did not improve the SCC resistance in ASTM D 1384 test solution. The SCC of PEO-coated specimens was attributed to the development of micro cracks in the coating, leading to substrate cracking under SSRT test conditions [167]. 

Surface treatment is a popular method for corrosion prevention. Bala Srinivasaneia/. [154,155] studied plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEG) coated LB welded AZ31 and FSW AZ61. The PEO coating increased the corrosion resistance, but did not improve SCC resistance. The failure to improve SCC resistance may be because the PEO coating is brittle. 

In special cases where the surface hardness must be increased or chemical corrosion resistance is necessary (e.g. plasma etching with chlorine), anodized aluminum surfaces can be useful. Alloying elements, impurities, and heat treatment can influence the nature and quality of the anodized coating - typically, the more pure the aluminum alloy, the better the anodized layer. To build up a thick anodized layer on aluminum, it is necessary for the electrolyte to continuously corrode the oxide, producing a porous oxide layer. ASTM Specification B-580-73 designates seven thicknesses (up to 50 microns) for anodization. 

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