Efeito da selagem hidrotérmica com adição de íons Ce (III) na proteção à corrosão da liga de alumínio AA7475-T761 anodizada em banho ácido tartárico-sulfúrico

Abstract

The aluminum alloys of series 7XXX have excellent mechanical properties combined with low density and are often used in the aeronautic industry. However, their susceptibility to localized corrosion requires the use of protective coatings to ensure their long-term life. In the aircraft industry, the anodization process is an effective corrosion control method. Besides, the anodized layer sealing treatment of parts that are not used with coatings, provide further protection. However, both processes, anodization and sealing, generally employ baths containing Cr (VI) ions. These are highly toxic to the environment and carcinogenic. In this work, the AA7475-T761 alloy was anodized in a solution of tartaric-sulfuric acid (TSA) and then the anodic layer was hydrothermally sealed in aqueous solutions, either with or without the addition of Ce (III) ions. The effect of sealing time on the corrosion protection of the anodic layer was investigated for periods of sealing corresponding to 2.5 min, 5 min, 7.5 min and 10 min. The corrosion resistance of the anodized alloy samples was evaluated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) as a function of exposure time to a sodium chloride electrolyte. Higher impedances were associated with anodic layers hydrothermally sealed for 7.5 min and 10 min in Ce (III) ions containing solution. Surface observation was carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the results indicated that hydrothermal treatments in solution with Ce (III) ions leads to anodic layers with decreased porosity.