Effect of hot rolling on the corrosion behavior of AZ31 magnesium alloy

The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of deformation conditions on the corrosion behavior of AZ31 (Mg-3Al-1Zn, % wt.) in 0.9% NaCl (wt.%) solution. The AZ31 alloy was hot rolled at 360 °C to 20 and 50% of thickness reduction. Electrochemical measurements were used to study the corrosion behavior of AZ31 alloy. Analysis of corrosion products after immersion test was performed using optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The mechanical properties of corroded samples were investigated using tensile test at room temperature. Results indicated that the corrosion rate was strongly affected by the hot rolling level. A lower corrosion potential and reduced polarization resistance was observed after hot rolling compared to the as received AZ31 alloy. The corrosion product was evidenced mainly as Mg(OH) 2 compound exhibiting a filiform-like morphology. Apparently, the corrosion improved the room temperature ductility of AZ31 alloy.