Abstract

The effects of different elements including Al, Sn and Zn with ability of solution hardening on corrosion behavior of a Mg alloy have been studied. The microstructure was analyzed and the electrochemical and immersion techniques were used for corrosion studies. Scanning kelvin probe force microscopy (SKPFM) was utilized to analyze the volta-potential distribution on the surface. It was found that all additives reduced the corrosion resistance; however, Zn decreased the corrosion resistance less than Al and Sn. The corrosion rate was quantitatively explained through volta-potential difference and the second phase fraction.