Corrosion of magnesium

Abstract

Magnesium alloys have high strength/weight ratios, but poor corrosion resistance affects the viability of increased magnesium usage in aerospace and other applications. This review approaches the problem of magnesium corrosion from the standpoint of corrosion science by discussing the thermodynamics, kinetics, and microstructural factors controlling corrosion behaviour. These conditions are then applied to an examination of the types of corrosion that Mg alloys undergo: general, galvanic, pitting, crevice, intergranular, stress corrosion, corrosion fatigue, and high temperature oxidation. Corrosion control measures developed for Mg alloys include the development of high purity or new alloys, rapid solidification, coatings, and surface modification.