Effect of mischmetal on the corrosion properties of Mg–5Al alloy

The effect of mischmetal (Mm) on the corrosion properties of Mg–5Al alloy was investigated by electrochemical techniques in 0.01 M NaCl solution as the alkaline condition (pH 12) and surface analyses. The electrochemical tests indicated that the pitting potential, time to pitting initiation, and charge transfer resistance of the Mg–5Al specimens increased with increasing Mm content. Surface analyses indicated that Mm promoted the formation of passive film in the absence of Mm products. In addition, the benefits of Mm addition are the refinement of the precipitates and reduction in grain size.