Anodising
Anodising is an electrochemical process that converts a metal surface into a decorative and often protective anodic oxide finish. The anodic oxide structure is made up of a layer of metal oxide on the surface which slightly increases the thickness of the metal. The oxide is not attached to the surface like a paint or plate but is fully integrated with the underlying substrate, which helps to stop chipping or peeling. It also has a porous structure which allows for further processing such as colouring and sealing.
Aluminium is ideally suited to anodizing, although other nonferrous metals, such as magnesium and titanium, also can be anodized. The anodic oxide structure originates from the aluminium substrate and is composed entirely of aluminium oxide
Anodising is a process of controlled oxidation (in effect the same process as rusting). It involves a tank where aluminium is immersed into an acid electrolyte bath, a cathode is mounted to the inside of the tank and an electric current is passed through the aluminium. As this happens the aluminium acts as an anode, causing oxygen ions to be released from the electrolyte and combine with the aluminium atoms at the surface of the part being anodized, this creates a thickened, protective, integrated layer.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Aluminium.
- Brass.
- Brittle fracture.
- Corrosion coupons.
- Corrosion inhibitor.
- Corrosion resistance.
- Corrosion resistant alloy CRA.
- Crevice corrosion.
- Deterioration.
- Electrochemistry.
- Electrochemical cell.
- Failure of cast iron beams.
- Galvanised steel.
- Galvanic corrosion.
- Graphitisation.
- Guidance for construction quality management professionals: Structural Steelwork.
- Hydrogen embrittlement.
- Iron.
- Marine corrosion.
- Microbiologically influenced corrosion.
- Pitting.
- Rust.
- Steel.
- Stainless steel.
- Types of metal.
- Types of steel.
- Under-deposit corrosion.
Featured articles and news
Specifying rendered external wall insulation for fire safety
How to interrogate the evidence provided to the specifier.
The benefits of writing articles for your organisation
How to create a profile for your organisation and publish for free.
No Falls Week. The importance of safe working at height
What to expect and what is on offer to avoid accidents.
Scottish Government action to reach net-zero targets
Retrofit expert group highlight critical actions needed.
A forward thinking, inclusive global community of members.
From engineered product life-spans, to their extension.
Circular economy in the built environment
A brief description from 2021. Where are we now?
Mental Health Awareness Week with ABS
Architects Benevolent Society programme of activity.
CLC publishes domestic retrofit competency framework
Roadmap of Skills for net zero.
May 13-19: Moving more for our mental health.
Understanding is key to conservation.
Open industry engagement survey seeks responses
Institutions and the importance of engagement.
National Retrofit Hub unveils new guide
Digital Building Logbooks and Retrofit: An Introduction.
Enhancing construction site reporting efficiency
Through digitisation and the digital revolution.