Plasma electrolytic oxidation treatment of aluminium and titanium alloys

This chapter gives a review of the plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) technique from scientific, technological and application points of view. The first section of the chapter reviews the historic development and advantages of the PEO process. Section 5.2 stresses the growth phenomenon and formation mechanism of PEO coatings. Section 5.3 discusses the effects of power source types and key process parameters (such as electrolyte composition, electrical parameters and solution temperature) on coatings. Section 5.4 discusses how this process can be applied in improving wear, corrosion protection, and other functional performance including antifriction, thermal protection, optical, and dielectric. The final section gives a view of new process explorations.