Surface composition, microstructure and corrosion resistance of AZ31 magnesium alloy irradiated by high-intensity pulsed ion beam

► A modified layer about 30 μm thick is obtained by HIPIB irradiation. ► Selective ablation of element/impurity phase having lower melting point is observed. ► More importantly, microstructural refinement occurred on the irradiated surface. ► The modified layer exhibited a significantly improved corrosion resistance. ► Improved corrosion resistance is ascribed to the combined effect induced by HIPIB.