Application of oxide coatings to metals in electrolyte solutions by microplasma methods

Abstract

Microplasma oxidation of aluminum alloys in alkaline colloidal and finely dispersed solutions is analyzed. Oxidation causes both electrolyte and alloy components to be incorporated into resultant coatings, which affect the deposition parameters and coating properties. Oxidation process has been studied at spark, micro-arc, and arc stages under an alternating current polarization and under purely anodic polarization. It is shown that the cathodic component of the alternating current not only facilitates subsequent anodic process, but also contributes to the formation of an oxide layer.