Anodic Film Formation in Oxalic Acid on AlMn0.5Mg0.5 Alloy

The microstructure of oxalic-acid-anodized layers on AlMn0.5Mg0.5 alloy is compared to such layers on aluminum. Differences originate from four types of precipitates occurring in the alloy, forming inclusions in the layers, roughening surface and interface, and modifying typical pore structures of anodized aluminum oxides. A characteristic feature of this modification is the appearance of transverse channels in pore walls. Nanoscaled precipitates are suggested as their origin. Correlation to functional properties such as microhardness and electrical isolation behavior is discussed. Continue reading

Properties of Gold Composites with Nanostructured Carbon-based Materials

Results of electrocodeposition of gold matrix composite coatings with carbon-based materials are reported, namely ultradispersed diamonds (UDD) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). Pure gold and gold composite coatings were prepared from a gold sulphite electrolyte with bath loads from 5 to 20 g/l (UDD bath) and from 0.1 to 5 g/l (MWCNT bath). The resulting composites are characterized in terms of carbon content, particle distribution, and their bonding to the matrix, surface morphology, and the influence of particle loading in the electrolyte on matrix microstructure. Vickers hardness, friction, and wear behavior were investigated and are discussed in terms of microstructure characterization. Some notable improvements in the performance of the composites were observed with regard to application as sliding contacts. Continue reading