This study uses liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy (LP-TEM) to observe the nanoscopic morphological evolution of lithium-based conversion coatings on AA2024-T3 aluminum alloy. A novel specimen preparation method involving sandwiched thin lamellae allows for cross-sectional in-situ observation of the conversion process. The results reveal a multi-stage process beginning with uniform alloy dissolution, followed by needle-like precipitation at grain boundaries, and culminating in a multi-layered structure comprising columnar, porous, and dense sublayers. Ex-situ SEM and TEM analyses support the LP-TEM findings. This approach offers a powerful tool for studying complex surface conversion processes.
Publisher
npj Materials Degradation
Published On
Aug 05, 2021
Authors
A. Kosari, F. Tichelaar, P. Visser, P. Taheri, H. Zandbergen, H. Terryn, J. M. C. Mol
Tags
liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy
lithium-based conversion coatings
AA2024-T3 aluminum alloy
morphological evolution
in-situ observation
multi-layered structure
precipitation process
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