The Mechanical Properties of Anodized Magnesium Die Castings

Magnesium anodizing processes have been reported to affect the strength of the underlying metal adversely so that service lives of components may be reduced. It has been suggested that localized surface heating effects during anodization may be responsible for introducing defects in the metal surface which may then result in a degradation of mechanical properties. While there is a need for more extensive research in this area, recent studies have shown that at least one magnesium anodizing process may in fact assist in achieving more favorable mechanical properties in magnesium die castings.