Aluminum has an oxide layer which is corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant.

In order to prevent the corrosion and abrasion of an aluminum alloy, techniques have been created to create this thick, protective aluminum oxide layer.

One way of forming this oxide layer is through a process called anodizing.

But what is anodizing?

Anodizing is a process used to promote the formation of an aluminum oxide layer on a base material more rapidly or with a greater thickness than it normally would under natural conditions.

While anodizing does work for several other base materials, aluminum responds the most effectively to anodizing.

Anodizing has been used not only for corrosion resistance but also for wear resistance and dyeing aluminum.

Since aluminum oxide is not nearly as conductive as aluminum, it can be also used for electrical insulation purposes.

Anodizing has many benefits, but it is important to note that it will not increase the strength of the aluminum underneath the anodized surface.

But do you know how anodizing is done?

Anodizing aluminum is considered an electrochemical process.

It involves taking an aluminum alloy and submerging it in a tank filled with an electrolytic solution.

This solution contains acid; the type of acid depends on the application.

Once submerged, an electrical current is passed through the aluminum.

The aluminum is anodized serves as the anode. A cathode is placed into the tank as well; usually aluminum or lead.

The electrical current causes the aluminum to oxidize. The anodizing process leaves a layer of aluminum oxide thicker than what can be achieved through natural oxidation.