The influence of ultrasonic vibration on micro-arc oxidation behaviour of manganese aluminium bronze

As a promising material for marine engineering, the insufficient corrosion resistance of manganese aluminium bronze (MAB) alloy when exposed to the marine environment may limit its application. In the present work, micro-arc oxidation (MAO) of MAB alloy was conducted in an aluminate-based electrolyte with the influence of ultrasonic vibration (UV) examined. A porous ceramic film has been successfully produced on MAB via MAO, which exhibits dramatic increases in both film thickness and compactness after the introduction of UV. As a result, the ceramic film produced by ultrasound-assisted MAO (UMAO) exhibits an enhanced corrosion resistance relative to that via MAO, which also possesses a desired antifouling capability. Hence, the present work illustrates the influence of UV on the MAO behaviour of non-valve alloys and, more importantly, provides theoretical guidance for related surface modification strategies in marine engineering. • Ceramic film could be produced on manganese aluminium bronze via MAO in an aluminate-based electrolyte. • Metallic Cu and Cu 2 O nanoparticles co-exist across the ceramic film produced via UMAO. • Ultrasound assistance benefits the thickness and compactness of ceramic film. • Enhanced corrosion resistance could be achieved with ultrasound assistance.