Corrosion Failure Analysis of Architectural Aluminum Alloys

Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive x-ray analysis were employed to identify the key factors responsible for the corrosion of anodically oxidized EN AW-6060 profiles employed for bathroom partitioning, in an assembly that also used metalized plastic clips. An alkaline cleaning agent led to crevice corrosion and a galvanic couple effect between the aluminum and the clips.