Passivation
Passivation is the process of making a material ‘passive’, meaning that it does not react to its environment, thereby preventing corrosion.
Anotec offers an extensive range of passivates, tops coats and torque modifiers.
How it Works
This passive state is achieved by adding a post-plating conversion coating, known as a passivate, through the deposition of a layer of oxide on its surface. This also determines its final colour.
Firstly, the metal surface is cleaned to remove any contaminants. It is then immersed in a passivating solution, typically containing nitric acid or citric acid.
When exposed to air, a thin, stable, and highly protective chromium oxide surface film is formed. The passivated part is finally rinsed to remove any residual chemicals, then dried to prevent further oxidation.
Benefits of Passivation
Corrosion resistance
Passivation enhances metal’s resistance to corrosion, especially in harsh environments.
Rust prevention
The protective oxide layer prevents the formation of rust and corrosion.
Surface integrity
Passivation helps maintain the structural integrity of the metal component by preventing corrosion from weakening it.
How Passivation is used
Passivation affects the properties of almost all metals, and is widely used in aluminium, zinc, titanium and stainless steel.
It is also used in the manufacture of microelectronics, protecting sensitive components from corrosion and contamination.
Passivation also protects metal components in water treatment facilities.
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