Effect of the fungus, Aspergillus niger, on the corrosion behaviour of AZ31B magnesium alloy in artificial seawater

Effect of Aspergillus niger (A. niger) on the corrosion behaviour of AZ31B magnesium alloy in artificial seawater (AS) has been studied. The presence of A. niger posed a threat for AZ31B magnesium alloy. A visible decrease in pH and Ecorrvs. SCE was observed in AS with A. niger compared to the sterile AS, and the presence of A. niger was associated with decrease in Rct and increase icorr, indicating the corrosion rate was clearly accelerated in the presence of A. niger. Preferential adsorption was located at the corrosion products and substrate interface. Adsorption of A. niger on AZ31B magnesium alloy further promoted the pitting corrosion.