Abstract

Whilst high voltages and water are generally kept apart from each other, they come together in an unusual form of surface treatment for metals. Plasma electrolysis is used for aerospace, motorsport and other applications where extreme hardness, improved corrosion protection or other more functional surface enhancements are required of metals such as aluminium, magnesium or titanium. It is based on conventional anodising, but exploits very intense local injection of energy through short-lived microscopic plasma discharges, reaching temperatures of ~16,000 K to generate unique coating compositions and microstructures.

This talk explores the current understanding of the process, typical applications ranging from Formula 1 parts to the International Space Station Structures, and semiconductor manufacture equipment, and finally describes current areas of research and development.