journal article·2025-04-23Open access

Progress in Surface Engineering Techniques for Magnesium–Lithium-Based Alloys

Ningning Li, Zhenjie Hao, Yaya Feng, Yan Shang, Yuping Tong, Fan Lu, Lei Xu, Xi Chen, Shuai Li, Jin Peng

Coatings· Volume 15· Issue 5

Abstract

Magnesium–lithium alloys, currently the lightest metallic structural materials, exhibit exceptional specific strength, superior damping capacity, and remarkable electromagnetic shielding properties. These characteristics endow them with significant potential for engineering applications in automotive, aerospace, satellite, and military industries. However, their poor corrosion resistance severely restricts practical implementation. This review systematically examines recent advances in surface engineering techniques for magnesium–lithium alloys, with a focus on corrosion protection strategies. Key approaches are critically analyzed, including chemical conversion coatings, electroless plating, anodization, and advanced coating technologies. Furthermore, emerging hybrid methods combining multiple surface treatments are highlighted. Finally, future research directions are proposed to address existing challenges in surface protection of magnesium–lithium alloys.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Aluminum Alloys Composites Properties · Magnesium Alloys: Properties and Applications · Aluminum Alloy Microstructure Properties

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

School of Materials Science and Engineering, North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Zhengzhou 450045, China

Henan Engineering Research Center on Special Materials and Applications of Water Conservancy and Hydropower Engineering, Zhengzhou 450045, China

National Key Laboratory of Aerospace Chemical Power, Inner Mongolia Research Institute of Synthetic Chemical Industry, Hohhot 010010, China

School of Mechanical Engineering, North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Zhengzhou 450045, China

School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China

Funding

Key R & D and Promotion Project of the Henan Province (Science and Technology Research) · Henan Province Science and Technology Research Project

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