INHIBITOR-DOPED SOL-GEL COATINGS FOR ENHANCED CORROSION PROTECTION OF MAGNESIUM ALLOY

摘要

Magnesium (Mg) is one of the lightest metals and its alloys are found to possess attractive properties for various industrial applications. The biggest advantage is their high strength-to-weight ratio, which makes magnesium alloys more suitable for application requiring light weight. The magnesium-3aluminium (Al)-1zinc (Zn) alloy (AZ31) is an attractive alloy for industrial use as it is more ductile and strong in comparison to pure magnesium. In addition, the alloy also has a homogeneous microstructure. However, they are too reactive and highly susceptible to corrosion. This restricts the usage of Mg alloys only to some components in mild environments. This challenge needs to be addressed to improve its corrosion protection by depositing thin organic, inorganic or hybrid films, which would expand the application areas of Mg alloys.