STUDY OF THE CORROSION PROTECTION PROPERTIES OF AL-ZN FILMS SYNTHESIZED BY IBAD

Two types of Al-Zn films with different structures have been synthesiz ed on AISI 1045 steel bq ion-beam-assisted deposition (IBAD). The surf ace morphology of as-deposited specimens was examined by scanning elec tron microscopy and their chemical composition was determined by energ y dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Electrochemical-polarization tests an d salt-fog tests were conducted in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. The results indicated that the dense film, which consisted of fine homogeneous gr ains, is a good sacrificial coating for improving the corrosion resist ance of AISI 1045 steel. (C) 1998 Published by Elsevier Science S.A.