Corrosion performance of nano‐treated aluminum alloy A206 with TiC nanoparticles

Abstract

A206 aluminum alloy is an important Al‐cast alloy with high mechanical strength. However, its dependence on θ′‐phase for effective strengthening raises concern for its anti‐corrosion performance in service. This paper systematically studies nano‐treating A206 with TiC nanoparticles to investigate its effects on overall corrosion behavior. Immersion tests and electrochemical measurements have been used to understand the nano‐treating contributions to the improved corrosion resistance of A206 under T4 and T6 heat treatment. The results indicate that the pseudo‐dispersion of TiC at or near the grain boundary (GB) and precipitates strengthens the GBs, and more rapid passivation near the TiC‐dense zone introduces a more uniform corrosion feature. The uniform corrosion with rapid passivation greatly facilitates the corrosion control of nano‐treated A206 under T4 and T6 heat treatment, allowing supreme anti‐corrosion stability for high‐strength A206 alloy.