Corrosion behavior of a Mg–Zn–Ca–La alloy in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution

Abstract The present study investigates the corrosion behavior of a Mg–Zn–Ca–La alloy. Results indicate that the corrosion resistance is enhanced by rolling deformation and subsequent annealing treatment significantly. The microstructure, distribution of second phase and grain orientation are the main factors affecting corrosion properties. The second phase with semi-continuous network in the as-cast alloy gives rise to the penetration of corrosion into the matrix. However, the dispersed second phase after deformation results in uniform corrosion. The formation of dense corrosion layer at the initial stage of corrosion is favorable for the improvement of corrosion resistance. The sample with 〈0001〉 plane oriented towards surface exhibits good corrosion resistance, which is ascribed to the homogeneous microstructure and strong basal texture.