Surface Oxidation of Aluminium for Achievement of Brilliant Colors and Suitable Physico - Mechanical Properties

Mirabedini, S.M.; Moradian, S.; Arami, M.

Surface Oxidation of Aluminium for Achievement of Brilliant Colors and Suitable Physico - Mechanical Properties

Authors

¹ Department of Colour, Resin & Surface Coatings, Iran Polymer and Petrochemical Institute

² Center of Excellence for Color Science and Technology, Institute for Color Science and Technology

³ Textile Engineering Department, Amirkabir University of Technology

Abstract

In this work,a dyeable porous Aluminium oxide layer on the 6063 aluminium alloy was prepaired by a chemical or an electrochemical (anodizing) method. Different variables such as concentration oxidizing agent, temperature, pH of solution, oxygen purging in the chemical method and time and temperature in the anodizing methods were evaluated. Formed aluminium oxide layers were then dyed via direct dyestuff and sealed with thermoplastic acrylic clear coating. Physical and chemical properties of dyed and sealed prepared specimens were then studied by different techniques. Results revealed that maximum oxide layer thickness in chemical oxidizing method was achieved at pH=13, at 30 C and in the presence of oxygen gas and the best physical fastness and dyeability were achieved at pH=12. Oxide film thickness in the anodizing method was found to be much thicker as compared with those prepared via chemical solution. However, chemically oxidized specimens revealed better mechanical properties such as flexibility, enhanced uniformity and brilliant colors.

Keywords