Effects of electrolyte system on the microstructure and properties of MAO ceramics coatings on 7050 high strength aluminum alloy

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the effects of different electrolyte systems on the properties of micro-arc oxidation coating on 7050 high strength aluminum alloy. Design/methodology/approach The coatings were prepared in silicate system with Na2SiO3 as main component, borate system with Na2B4O7 as main component and aluminate solution with Na2AlO2 as main salt, respectively. Findings The results show that the 7050 high strength aluminum alloy shows the best properties in silicate system. Originality/value This manuscript studied the crucial influence of different electrolyte systems on the microstructure and properties of the aluminum alloy micro-arc oxidation layer.