Influence of process parameters on the corrosion properties of electrolytic conversion plasma coated magnesium alloys

The synthesis of oxides in a low-temperature electrolytic plasma allows to cover surfaces of magnesium and its alloys with multifunctional protective oxide-ceramic coatings. In order to improve the layer properties, thick layers have been produced, and the influence on layer structure and properties with a main focus on corrosion behaviour was studied. The commercial hard ceramic coatings, e.g., those offered by Keronite or AHC, generally have a thickness of 20-30 mu m, while in the present study thicknesses of up to 120 mu m were produced. The influence of the process conditions on the microstructure and properties will be discussed. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V All rights reserved.