Ultrasound-assisted surface chemical processes for aluminum alloys to improve its corrosion protection and the adhesion of paintwork and bonds

IGF 21700 N

Bild Forschungsprojekt
Period: 01.05.2021 - 31.10.2023
Partner: Paderborn University
Funder: AiF
Project Manager: Dr. Ralf Peipmann
Team: Electrolytic Corrosion

Description of the problem

Aluminum alloy based components used in the aerospace or automotive industries are commonly anodized or treated with a chemical conversion before paints and varnishes are applied or they are adhesively joined. This is done in order to improve the adhesion of the paints and bonding agents as well as the corrosion protection. However, some components of these alloys for instance intermetallic phases containing elements like copper or silicon can lead to undesirable corrosion effects and result in erroneous coatings or later in defects.

Approach

These issues are being addressed in the new IGF research project “Ultrasound assisted surface chemical processes for aluminum alloys to improve corrosion protection and adhesion of paints and bonding agents” (IGF no. 21700 N). Together with the chair of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry of Paderborn University existing approaches will be optimized and new processes developed to prevent the detrimental  effects of corrosion-active compounds during the anodization and conversion treatments.

The focus is put on the pretreatment steps of the alloys under the application of ultrasound. Next to the chemical treatments ultrasound presents an additional method to modify the surface by mechanical as well as by chemical and thermal means.

Goal of the project

The aim is to remove, deactivate or mask the corrosion-active components on the surfaces allowing the subsequent processes to produce more homogeneous and defect-free surface layers.

The results of the project will be made available to SMEs of the surface treatment sector, thus enabling them to implement these new innovative and resource efficient methods and to produce high quality products with improved corrosion properties.

 

 

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Hinweis Grafik

Das IGF-Vorhaben Nr. IGF 21700 N der Forschungsvereinigung DECHEMA e.V. wird über die AiF im Rahmen des Programms zur Förderung der industriellen Gemeinschaftsforschung (IGF) vom Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Klimaschutz aufgrund eines Beschlusses des Deutschen Bundestages gefördert.

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