Have you ever wondered why pure Aluminum is so prone to
oxidizing? Many metals, like iron and copper, develop an oxide layer when
exposed to air. This oxide layer helps protect them from further oxidation and
corrosion. However, pure Aluminum is different; it oxidizes more quickly than
other metals and alloys. Let’s dive into why this is the case and how to
prevent oxidation in aluminum alloys.
Oxidation in Metals
When exposed to air or water, metals naturally form an oxide
layer, which protects them from further oxidation and corrosion. This process
is known as oxidation. All metals have a natural tendency towards
oxidation—some more than others—but it can generally be prevented with a
protective coating or by alloying other metals.
Why Does Pure Aluminum Oxidize More Easily?
Pure Aluminum has a very low propensity for forming an oxide
layer compared to other metals and alloys. This means that its natural tendency
towards oxidation is much higher than other metals, making it more susceptible
to corrosion when exposed to air or water. This is because Aluminum has such a
high affinity for oxygen molecules; it forms strong bonds with them quickly,
leading to rapid oxidation and corrosion.
What is the colour of oxidized Aluminum?
Unlike rust, aluminum corrosion is not simply removed with a
bit of scrubbing. Its powdery grey hue makes it hard to detect as it blends in
with the natural colour of Aluminum itself. Unlike its rusty counterpart, this
patina cannot be wiped away easily and frequently goes unnoticed until
significant damage has been done.
Is it possible for aluminum oxide to be black?
The answer is yes! Black Aluminum Oxide, an abrasive made
from the electrofusion of bauxite, iron oxide and micro-elements in an arc
furnace, is one of the hardest minerals available. Yet, with its unique
composition and powerful properties, Black Aluminum Oxide can provide strength
that few other materials can offer.
What Can Be Done To Prevent Oxidation?
The best way to prevent pure Aluminum from oxidizing is by
adding alloying elements such as magnesium or silicon, which form a hard oxide
layer on the surface of the metal that resists further oxidation and corrosion.
Additionally, adding a protective coating such as paint or lacquer can also
help prevent oxidation in pure aluminum alloys.
To summarise, whether you’re looking for ways to prevent
oxidization in pure aluminum alloys or just curious about why some metals rust
faster than others, we hope this article has given you some insight into the
chemical process of oxidization in metals! As we have seen here, the key
difference between pure Aluminum and other metals lies in its higher affinity
for oxygen molecules leading to rapid oxidation — but with proper protection or
alloying elements added, this issue can easily be mitigated! With these tips in
mind, you should feel confident managing your projects involving pure aluminum
alloys!
Who
are we?
We are
an aluminum enthusiast and an aluminum metals supplier in Canada and the USA.
We
offer premium, different colour Aluminum Coil,
anodized Aluminum sheets, & assorted colour aluminum wire and Aluminum Foil for sale in
our warehouse, ready to ship today.
Call us
today, Toll-Free: 866–860–0652, if you need further information.
P.s we have many blogs discussing aluminum
metals, ranging from their information to common misconceptions. A few examples
are:
How
to Keep Your Aluminum Foil from Turning Grey?
The
Different Materials Used in Bicycle Frames and Why They Matter
Historically,
who started sheet metal work?
How
Thick Does Metal Need to Be to Block an X-Ray, How About Aluminum?
Which
metal is more reactive, magnesium, zinc or Aluminum?
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