anodize

Oxidize via electrolysis

Anodize is to coat a metal, usually aluminum, with a protective oxide layer through an electrochemical process.

The metal becomes the anode in an acid bath, and electric current builds up a hard, corrosion-resistant surface that can also accept dyes: anodized aluminum comes in various colors.

The coating is part of the metal itself, not paint or plating.

process

electrolyte

Conductive dissolved substance

voltage · electrochemical · sulfuric · acid · bath · rectifier · electrolysis · immersion · dipping · racking

applications

aluminum

Element thirteen

automotive · cookware · electronics · enclosures · firearms · carabiners · flashlights

finish

coloring

Adding pigment to something

  • dyeingColoring via immersion
  • satinGlossy-surfaced woven cloth
  • matteNon-reflective surface finish

bright · decorative · aesthetic · black · bronze · gold · champagne · blue · red · architectural

coating

thickness

Depth of material

  • hardcoatAbrasion-resistant surface layer
  • mil-specDefense department specification
  • porousAllowing passage of fluids

sealed · uniform · adhesion · buildup · microns · film · clear-coat · two-step

durability

corrosion-resistant

Withstands oxidation and decay

abrasion-resistant · scratch-resistant · protective · sealing · longevity · outdoor · preservation

Categories
Opposites
surface treatment method

anodizeelectroplate

Coat with metal electrically

paint · galvanize · powder coat · lacquer · enamel

surface modification direction

anodizestrip

Narrow elongated piece

pickle · etch · sand · abrade · deoxidize

Family

anodizing, anodized, anodising, anodised

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Rated G