What is anodizing?

 　　Aluminum has a corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant oxide layer. Pure aluminum is not easily corroded as a result. However, aluminum containing other alloying elements may be corroded unless a thick layer of aluminum oxide can be manufactured to protect it. In order to prevent corrosion and wear of aluminum alloys, technology has been created to manufacture this thick protective aluminum oxide layer. One method of forming this oxide layer is through a process called anodic oxidation. But what is anodizing?

　　Anodizing is a process used to promote the formation of an alumina layer on a substrate, which is faster or thicker than normal under natural conditions. Although anodizing is indeed applicable to several other basic materials, aluminum is the most effective reaction to anodizing. Anodizing first became popular in the 1920s as a means of preventing corrosion of aluminum components. Since then, it has not only been used for corrosion resistance, but also for wear resistance and dyeing aluminum. Due to its lower conductivity than aluminum, aluminum oxide can also be used for electrical insulation purposes. Anodizing has many benefits, but it is important to note that it does not increase the strength of the aluminum below the anodized surface.