Effect of TiN-deposition on adhesion characteristics of aluminium

Abstract

This investigation highlights on surface modifications and adhesive bonding of aluminium. The surface of the aluminium substrate is modified by magnetron sputtering and nanoparticle reinforcements are employed into the adhesive and their effects on adhesive strength are examined. Owing to the concern of durability of the aluminium surface, adhesive joints are still questionable for their widespread use in structural applications. Various environmental conditions affect properties of adhesives and their performance may degrade over time when adhesive joints are exposed to varying moisture and temperature conditions. Modified aluminium surfaces are examined by morphological techniques to understand the result of deposition on the morphology of substrate. Surface modified samples are subjected to harsh environments and analysed by energy dispersive spectra and surface durability is quantified by corrosion penetration rate. The effect of nano-reinforcements in adhesives on bond durability is examined when the bonded joints are subjected to the harsh environment.