Effect of nitrogen incorporated into oxide layer, formed on the magnesium alloys by using r.f. PECVD process, on their corrosion resistance

摘要

The low density of magnesium alloys makes them especially attractive in order to reach the lowest weigh targets, without losing strength, required by the automotive, electronic and aeronautical industries. Unfortunately, magnesium alloys have a strong susceptibility to atmospheric and galvanic corrosion and need to be protected with anticorrosive coatings. Traditionally magnesium and magnesium alloys have been protected with anodizing treatments or with chromium-based coatings with the consequent problem of pollution by Cr(IV) ions. The development of new corrosion resistant coatings for protection of magnesium parts, by using clean and environmentally friendly processes is very important and strategic for the European industry due to environmental, health and economic considerations: nowadays there is a strong need to replace the presently used hazardous coating technologies and to improve the usage of light weight materials [1].