Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Commons^™

Corrosion-induced damage in ZK60A magnesium alloy is analyzed via chemo-mechanical tests. A certain “diffusion” corrosion layer (DCL) is identified, where partial corrosion takes place. This layer is different from the corrosion product layer (CPL). Nanoindentation analysis shows that corrosion modifies mechanical properties in the DCL, which extends up to 8–9 micrometers into the bulk, away from the CPL. Measurements over the DCL indicate a lower elastic modulus and lower fracture toughness compared with the bulk, as well as higher variance (heterogeneity). Elemental analysis confirms the layer is composed of partially oxidized magnesium and diffused chloride ions. Gradual changes in mechanical …