Mitigating the detrimental effects of galvanic corrosion by nanoscale composite architecture design

Oliver Renk, Irmgard Weißensteiner, Martina Cihova, Eva-Maria Steyskal, Nicole Sommer, Michael Tkadletz, Stefan Pogatscher, P. Schmutz, Jürgen Eckert, Peter Uggowitzer, Reinhard Pippan, Annelie M. Weinberg

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

Abstract

Widespread application of magnesium (Mg) has been prevented by its low strength and poor corrosion resistance. Core of this limitation is Mg’s low electrochemical potential and low solubility for most elements, favoring secondary phase precipitation acting as effective micro-galvanic elements. Mg-based metal–metal composites, while benefiting strength, are similarly active galvanic couples. We show that related detrimental corrosion susceptibility is overcome by nanoscale composite architecture design. Nanoscale phase spacings enable high-strength Mg–Fe composites with degradation rates as low as ultra-high purity Mg. Our concept thus fundamentally changes today’s understanding of Mg’s corrosion and significantly widens the property space of Mg-based materials.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages9
Journalnpj Materials degradation
Volume47.2022
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 16 Jun 2022

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