The influences of microdischarge types and silicate on the morphologies and phase compositions of plasma electrolytic oxidation coatings on Zircaloy-2

Plasma electrolytic oxidation coatings were formed in alkaline silicate electrolyte on Zircaloy-2. The evolution of the types of discharges, the microstructures, phase compositions and the corrosion resistance of the coatings were studied by real time imaging, SEM, XRD, and electrochemical tests. Characteristic solidification structures were revealed in the PEO coatings, the formation of the solidification structures is related to the long...