AZ91 Magnesium Alloys: Anodizing of Using Environmental Friendly Electrolytes

Abstract

An anodizing process, based on environmental friendly electrolyte solutions has been studied on AZ 91 magnesium alloys by using three types of electrolytes: the first is based on sodium silicate, the second on sodium hydroxide-boric acid-borax and the third on sodium silicate- potassium hydroxide-sodium carbonate-sodium tetra borate. A pretreatment including fluoride activation was applied before the anodizing process. It was found that the anodic film thickness increases as current density or anodizing voltage increases. It is also increased with deposition time until the deposition stops due to the formation of a thick anodic film. Optimization of the anodizing conditions - current density and deposition time- was made for each electrolyte. Characterization of anodizing layer was achieved by determination of surface morphology, microstructure, phase analysis, coat thickness, adhesion and corrosion resistance. In all cases, excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance was obtained. A corrosion efficiency ranging from 94% to 97% was reached; the highest value corresponding to the third electrolyte.