SUMMARY
One of the reasons of susceptibility to pitting of aluminium alloys of 2xxx series is the presence of copper and copper containing intermetallics. A comprehensive description of the effects of the second phase and re-plated copper on corrosion behaviour of aluminium alloys has been done. This is also the case for conversion coatings formed on these alloys, served as autonomous protective coating or surface modification prior to or-ganic coating. A review of chromates alternatives has been carried out with special emphasis on pre-treatment stages. It was shown that it is possible to elaborate a special chemical treatment that decreases negative effect of copper inclusions. Current trends in anodic oxidation of high – strength aluminium alloys have also been described.
Key words
Aluminium alloys, 2xxx series, corrosion, conversion coatings, anodic oxidation, protective properties.
1 Instytut Mechaniki Precyzyjnej, Warszawa
