Effect of Electrolyte Composition on the Structure and Tribological Properties of Ceramic Coatings Obtained by Micro-Arc Oxidation

The paper is dedicated to studying the structural and mechanical properties of ceramic coatings obtained by micro-arc oxidation (MAO) using a cathodic-anodic mode in alkali-silicate, borate, and alkali-silicate-phosphate electrolytes from an experimental sample of compositions. Coatings formed using borate electrolyte have the best mechanical properties, resulting in the improvement of wear resistance of an unprotected aluminum surface by 2.1 to 3.1 times, depending on the content of borate ions in the utilized electrolyte. Ceramic MAO coatings offer a potential for use at the Russian repair and maintenance enterprises, which are engaged in the repair and restoration of worn aluminum and steel materials used in critical components of agricultural machinery.