Enhancing corrosion resistance of AZ31B magnesium alloy substrate in 3.5 % NaCl solution with Al-Si coating prepared by cold metal transfer-based wire arc additive manufacturing

In this study, we explored an innovative approach to enhance the corrosion resistance of AZ31B magnesium alloy in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution by applying an Al-Si coating using cold metal transfer (CMT)-based wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) technology. The findings indicate that the Al-Si coating improved the alloy’s corrosion performance, with a more noble self-corrosion potential (- 0.97 V SCE ) and lower self-corrosion current density (3.68 μA/cm 2 ) compared to untreated AZ31B. Long-term immersion tests demonstrated that AZ31B suffered from severe localized corrosion, while Al-Si coating maintained a uniform corrosion profile. Analysis of the corrosion products showed that the Al-Si coating primarily comprised oxidized Mg and hydroxide Al, with minimal oxidized Al and Si, in contrast to the mainly metallic and hydroxide Mg on AZ31B. By reducing the electrochemical activity and enhancing the stability of corrosion products, the Al-Si coating significantly improved the corrosion resistance of AZ31B substrate. This study suggests a promising avenue for advancing the durability of magnesium alloys in corrosive environments. • AZ31B received Al-Si coatings via cold metal transfer. • The coatings exhibited better corrosion resistance in 3.5 % NaCl solution. • The coatings’ electrochemistry was diffusion-controlled; AZ31B actively dissolved.