Potentiodynamic Tests of Magnesium Alloy AZ31 with Lithium Additive

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to assess electrochemical corrosion resistance of magnesium alloy AZ31 with additives of 4.5, 7.5 and 15 % lithium in NaCl solutions. Corrosion tests were performed in solutions with concentration 0.01 2 M NaCl with application of electrochemical testing system VoltaLab®PGP201. Resistance to electrochemical corrosion was evaluated on the ground of registered anodic polarisation curves by means of potentiodynamic method. Results of performed tests show unequivocally deterioration of corrosion characteristics of the alloy together with increase of molar concentration of NaCl solution. As chloride ions concentration increases, decrease of corrosion potential and polarisation resistance, as well as increase of corrosion current density are observed. Deterioration of corrosion characteristics of AZ31 alloy was shown with the increase of lithium content. It must be highlighted that irrespective of molar concentration of NaCl solution, there is also presence of pitting corrosion in the tested alloy. It proves that magnesium alloy AZ31-Li is not resistant to that type of corrosion. Test results prove that it is necessary to apply protective films on elements made of magnesium alloy with lithium additive.