Anodic films containing zirconia nanoparticles for corrosion protection of AA1050 aluminum alloy

In this paper, production of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) is based on a parameter-optimized literature scheme. Highly ordered tubular structures are achieved as a starting point for subsequent modification steps. These steps include sealing of AAO pores. Sealing is here attempted via the spontaneous adsorption of ZrO2 nanoparticles on preformed AAO. Nanoparticles are synthetized by several different methods, in particular, the innovative water-free microwave-assisted synthesis. These novel water-free nanoparticles are, here for the first time, used for AAO sealing and corrosion protection. Increase in corrosion resistance is tested by electrochemical methods.