Effect of current density on the microstructure and corrosion behaviour of plasma electrolytic oxidation treated AM50 magnesium alloy

• Published in: Applied surface science Vol. 255; no. 7; pp. 4212 - 4218
• Main Authors: Bala Srinivasan, P., Liang, J., Blawert, C., Störmer, M., Dietzel, W.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 15-01-2009
• Subjects: Corrosion resistance; Magnesium alloy; Microstructure; Plasma electrolytic oxidation; Surface roughness; Thickness; Thickness; Corrosion resistance; Surface roughness; Plasma electrolytic oxidation; Microstructure; Magnesium alloy
• ISSN: 0169-4332; 1873-5584
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2008.11.008

Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) of an AM50 magnesium alloy was accomplished in a silicate-based electrolyte using a DC power source. Coatings were produced at three current densities, i.e. 15
mA
cm
−2, 75
mA
cm
−2, and 150
mA
cm
−2 and were characterised for thickness, roughness, microstructural morphology, phase composition, and corrosion resistance. Even though the 15
min treated coatings produced at higher current density levels were thicker, they showed poor corrosion resistance when compared to that of the coatings obtained at 15
mA
cm
−2. Short-term treatments (2
min and 5
min) at 150
mA
cm
−2 yielded coatings of thickness and corrosion resistance comparable to that of the low current density coatings. The superior corrosion resistance of the low thickness coatings is attributed to the better pore morphology and compactness of the layer.