Study of the corrosion protection properties of Al–Zn films synthesized by IBAD

Abstract Two types of Al–Zn films with different structures have been synthesized on AISI 1045 steel by ion-beam-assisted deposition (IBAD). The surface morphology of as-deposited specimens was examined by scanning electron microscopy and their chemical composition was determined by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Electrochemical-polarization tests and salt-fog tests were conducted in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. The results indicated that the dense film, which consisted of fine homogeneous grains, is a good sacrificial coating for improving the corrosion resistance of AISI 1045 steel.