Surface Modification of 6xxx Series Aluminum Alloys

Abstract

Due to their superior mechanical properties, formability, corrosion resistance, and lightweight nature, 6xxx series aluminum (Al) alloys are considered as a promising structural material. Nevertheless, the successful application of these materials depends on their response to the external environment. Recently, designers considered the surface properties an equally important aspect of the component design. Due to this concern, these alloys are subjected to varieties of surface modification methodologies. Many methodologies are explored to modify the 6xxx series Al alloys surfaces effectively. These methods are anodizing, plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO), cladding, friction stir processing, friction surfacing, melting, alloying, and resolidification using high energy beams, etc. This review work discusses some of these methods, recent research activities on them, important process variables, and their role on the final properties of the surfaces.