The influence of SiO₂ nanoparticles addition into electrolyte on the wear resistance of oxide layers formed by PEO on aluminum-silicon alloy

Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray spectral microanalysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, and instrumental indentation were used for studying of oxide layers formed by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) on the eutectic aluminum-silicone alloy A04130 in electrolyte with the addition of SiO₂ nanoparticles of different concentrations. The optimum concentration of SiO₂ nanoparticles in the electrolyte (3 g/l) was found, for achieving maximum microhardness and wear resistance of the oxide layer, exceeding the value obtained in the electrolyte without adding SiO₂ nanoparticles by 1.6 and 3.5 times, respectively. (paper)