Electrochemical behavior of anodized Mg alloy AZ91D in chloride containing aqueous solution

Electrochemical behavior in aerated 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution of Mg alloy AZ91D anodized or not has been investigated by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization and Ecorr–t curve. Their microstructures before and after corrosion have been examined under scanning electron microscope. Testing results from Ecorr–t and polarization curves indicate that the corrosion behavior of Mg alloy makes significant, characteristic changes due to anodization. Impedance spectra obtained show a regular evolution with exposure time revealing the development of corrosion damage. SEM micrographs confirm that there are pores, defects and microcracks in anodic film which determine the existence of film-vulnerable regions. Electrochemical data are combined with micrographs to explain protection mechanism of anodic film and corrosion mechanism of Mg alloy.