Effect of micro-arc oxidation coating on stress corrosion behavior of AA7050

Purpose This paper aims to study the effect of Micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coating on stress corrosion and electrochemical behavior of aluminum alloy. Design/methodology/approach The stress corrosion cracking behavior of 7050 aluminum alloy (AA7050) after MAO treatment was investigated in 3.5 Wt.% NaCl solution using the constant load ring. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to evaluate the change of corrosion resistance of MAO specimens in 3.5 Wt.% NaCl solution, and appropriate equivalent circuits were established. Findings The results demonstrated that the MAO coating can improve the corrosion resistance of the AA7050 and avoid the reduction of mechanical properties caused by corrosion. In the initial stage of corrosion, the corrosion resistance of coated specimen decreased at first and then increased. In the middle and final stage of corrosion, the corrosion resistance of coated specimen decreased at first and then stabilized. Originality/value The long-term corrosion behavior of MAO specimens under stress was studied by constant load experiment and EIS. It has guiding significance for the application of MAO technology on aluminum alloy.