What is PEO?

Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) or Micro Arc Oxidation (MAO) is a novel surface technology that transforms the surface of valve metals such as Al, Mg and Ti etc. into a ceramic-like material with excellent wear and corrosion resistant properties. In this method, the metal used as anode is immersed in an environmentally friendly low-concentration alkaline electrolyte and the initiation of discharges is provided reaching the microarcing voltage at which the dielectric breakdown of the oxide film occurs. The oxide film proceeds via substrate metal oxidation and contribution of electrolyte additives such as phosphates and silicates into the coating structure.

The main research area of the tribology laboratory is the development of PEO coatings on light alloys such as Al, Mg and Ti which are employed in several branches of industry such as automotive, textile, aerospace and architecture etc. The PEO coatings provide excellent wear and corrosion resistance to the base metal and extend its service life. The research and development of PEO technology is performed using advanced characterization devices that exist in our department laboratories. The members of PEOgroup advance the technology with the support of new graduate and PhD students.

Collaborations

Tribology Laboratory collaborates with Keronite International Ltd which is a global technology company with an environmentally-friendly process for the surface treatment of light alloys. The process is known as Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) or Micro Arc Oxidation (MAO) . The patented chrome-free technology is widely used to transform the surface of aluminium and magnesium into a hard, dense ceramic with outstanding resistance to corrosion and wear.

Facilities

Tribology Laboratory has a Keronite G2 lab-scale plasma electrolytic oxidation unit with 20 kW max. power output allowing to coat Al and Mg articles with max. surface areas of 0.3 and 0.6 m^2 respectively under specified conditions. Advanced characterization equipments existing in our department are employed in order to investigate the structural, tribological and electrochemical properties of PEO coatings.