Composite protects magnesium from the elements

Citation

(2003), "Composite protects magnesium from the elements", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 50 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.2003.12850fad.003

Composite protects magnesium from the elements

Composite protects magnesium from the elements

Keywords: Composites, Coatings, Magnesium

A sample of magnesium coated with a new composite, Apticote Keronite 3250 SG, has completed a 2,000 h salt spray test with virtually no signs of corrosion. Put into context, the performance of the specialised coating from surface coating specialist Poeton Industries, compares with 150 h resistance for uncoated magnesium. The result means that magnesium, which is chemically very reactive and therefore highly corrosive, can be used in the most demanding environments.

The coating process uses electrolytic oxidisation to transform the surface of magnesium into a hard, dense ceramic oxide that is twice as wear resistant and seven times as scratch resistant as anodised surfaces, and is capable of protecting even the most complex shapes without cracking or chipping. On a standard AZ9ID alloy, it can also have hardness of 400-600HV.

Besides its obvious applications on magnesium, these properties make magnesium coated with Apticote Keronite 3250 SG an ideal substitute for steel, cast iron, sintered ceramic, and even plastic. Recent applications have included automotive components (such as cam covers, gearbox housings, roof rails etc.), consumer electronics (computers, cameras, mobile phones), erosion-resistant surfaces for textile machinery, frames for mountain bikes, fashion glasses and a wide range of engineering components.