Hard Anodizing of Aluminium Matrix Composite A6061/(Al 2 O 3 ) p for Wear and Corrosion Resistance Improvement

Aluminium matrix composites fabricated with lightweight aluminium alloy matrices and high modulus SiC or Al 2 O 3 particle reinforcements, offer a high specific strength and stiffness. Although AMCs are promising for applications, the addition of a second phase to an aluminium matrix could significantly degrade the corrosion resistance in hostile environments. Anodizing has been considered as a potential means for protecting AMCs against corrosive attack. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility that hard anodizing A6061+26%Al 2 O 3p material improves tribological properties and corrosion resistance. The investigation regarding the film formation mechanism revealed that thickness of the anodic film was not uniform; however, after anodization the corrosion and wear resistance of aluminium 6061/Al 2 O 3 composite was significantly improved.