Emission of neutral particles from anodized aluminum surfaces during tensile deformation

Abstract

Anodization of aluminum and other metals serves as surface preparation for a number of important applications including adhesive bonding of metal parts. We have been investigating the emission of several types of particles (commonly referred to as exoemission) from the surfaces of anodized aluminum during tensile deformation as a means of characterizing these oxides. Most recently, we have also observed relatively intense emission of neutral particles, primarily O2 and CO2, during deformation. From correlations with the growth of cracks in the oxide layer as the sample elongates, a model for tribostimulated neutral emission is suggested.