Advances in anti-corrosion coatings on magnesium alloys and their preparation methods

Anti-corrosion coatings on magnesium alloys serve as a barrier that inhibits external agents such as salt and acid rain from interacting with the alloy surface. By isolating the alloy from air and moisture, these coatings delay the onset of oxidation and corrosion, thereby enhancing the alloy’s durability. Consequently, the formulation of such coatings is a critical step in advancing the magnesium alloy industry. This review outlines the types and anti-corrosive mechanisms of coatings for magnesium alloys, namely, organic, inorganic, metallic, and composite coatings. Additionally, various methods for coating preparation are discussed, including hydrothermal methods, chemical vapor deposition, electrodeposition, microarc oxidation, and magnetron sputtering. Finally, the review offers directions and conceptual frameworks for future research on magnesium alloy anti-corrosion coatings.