Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) Coatings on Aluminum Alloys: Kinetics and Formation Mechanism

In this review, the main kinetics and mechanism regularities of plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) of aluminum alloys are discussed. The material and heat balances of the PEO process, including anomalous gas evolution and possible thermochemical reactions are presented for the first time. Side effects accompanying spark discharges from both the surface and the electrolyte sides are analyzed. The influences of electrical regime (direct, alternative, and pulse current) on the rate of coatings growth are summarized from the electrochemical point of view. Different modes of anodic polarization and electrolyte composition (alkaline solutions with inorganic polymers and dispersed constituents) are discussed in the applicative aspect.