Study on the anodic film formation process of AZ91D magnesium alloy

The formation of anodic film of AZ91D magnesium alloy has been investigated by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry, anodic polarization curve, current–time transients and SEM technique. The results show that, under our experimental conditions, the formation of AZ91D anodic film follows the mechanism of 3D nucleation with diffusion controlled growth. With the increase of applied anodizing potential, the nucleation type of anodic film changes from progressive to instantaneous. The results also show that the initially formed anodized film is threadlike and porous, and high potential is essential for the formation of good anodic film with excellent properties.