Corrosion resistance and molecular dynamics behavior of the MAO/SAM composite coatings on magnesium alloy

To improve corrosion resistance of magnesium alloy AZ91D, y-Mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTS) was assembled on the surface of micro-arc oxidation (MAO) treated magnesium alloy by self-assembly membrane (SAM) technique. The surface morphology and chemical components of the MAO/SAM composite coatings were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). The corrosion resistance of samples was investigated by potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and total immersion tests in a 3.5 wt % NaCl solution. The measured EIS data were simulated by an equivalent circuit. Also the molecular dynamic simulation was used to study the adsorption behavior at the molecular level. The results showed that the surface of magnesium alloy was well covered by the MAO/SAM composite coatings with a better corrosion resistance. Chemical adsorption was formed between the organic molecules and the surface of the MAO coating. The approach presented here afforded an effective alternative for surface modification of magnesium-based materials to meet the many aspects of the application requirements.