The process flow for the micro-arc oxidation technology of magnesium alloys is as follows:

Chemical degreasing (combined with ultrasonic degreasing for better results) is used to clean micro-arc oxidation, followed by sealing, drying, and final product inspection.

Process Technology Conditions and Influencing Factors:

① Influence of Alloy Materials and Surface Conditions: Micro-arc oxidation technology has low requirements for the alloy composition of magnesium workpieces and their surface conditions, usually without the need for surface polishing. For workpieces with higher roughness, the surface is repaired and becomes more even and smooth after micro-arc oxidation treatment; whereas for workpieces with lower roughness, the surface roughness is slightly increased after micro-arc oxidation.

② Impact of Electrolyte Solutions and Their Components: The micro-arc oxidation electrolyte is a key technology for achieving a qualified film. The properties of the resulting film differ with different electrolyte compositions and oxidation process parameters.

③ Impact of Oxidation Voltage and Current Density: The control of micro-arc oxidation voltage and current density is equally crucial for obtaining qualified coatings. Different materials and different oxidation electrolytes have different micro-arc discharge breakdown voltages (breakdown voltage: the electrolytic voltage at which micro-arc discharge just begins on the workpiece surface).

④ Effects of Temperature and Mixing: Unlike conventional anodizing, the temperature range for micro-arc oxidation electrolytes is wider, allowing for processing between 10-60°C. Although the micro-arc oxidation process results in a significant release of gas on the workpiece surface, which exerts some mixing on the electrolyte, a mixing device for the electrolyte is generally required to ensure uniformity of the oxidation temperature and the system's composition.

⑤ Influence of Micro-Arc Oxidation Time: The micro-arc oxidation time is generally controlled between 10 to 60 minutes. The longer the oxidation time, the higher the denseness of the film, but its roughness also increases.

⑥ Cathode Materials: Cathode materials utilizing micro-arc oxidation are made from insoluble metal materials, which can include carbon steel, stainless steel, or nickel.

⑦ Post-treatment of coatings: Magnesium-based workpieces can be used directly without further treatment after micro-arc oxidation, or the oxide coating can be sealed, painted, and mechanically polished for additional post-treatment to enhance the decorative properties of the coating.