Iron-rich layer introduced by SMAT and its effect on corrosion resistance and wear behavior of 2024 Al alloy

▶ A nanocrystalline layer with an average grain size of 55 nm was produced at the surface of Al alloy by SMAT process. ▶ A 5 μm thick surface layer containing Fe, the grain size of which was in nanometer scale, was introduced into the top layer of Al nanocrystalline surface. ▶ The iron-rich layer led to the diminution of corrosion resistance of 2024 Al alloy, while the wear resistance was improved due to the beneficial combination of refined grains, increased hardness and lubrication effect of iron-rich layer.