Corrosion Resistant Superhydrophobic Aluminum Alloy: A Review

Abstract

Aluminum alloys are widely used in aerospace and space applications due to their high strength to weight ratio. The most prevalent method to prevent corrosion of aluminum alloys is anodic oxidation or anodization treatment. The anodized layer is porous and hence there are chances of penetration of moisture and corrosion of underlying substrate underneath the anodized layer. Surface modification of the aluminum alloy by superhydrophobic coating is a very attractive method to improve the corrosion resistance of aluminum alloys. The inspiration for the fabrication of superhydrophobic coatings is obtained from various examples in nature such as strider’s legs and lotus leaf. The fabrication of superhydrophobic coatings involves two important steps; generation of a rough surface and deposition of low surface energy material. The present paper reviews the various researches undertaken for the production of superhydrophobic surfaces on aluminum and aluminum alloys. Finally, the scope of future research activities in the fabrication of superhydrophobic coatings has been discussed in the paper.