Abstract: A no pollution organic acid based conversion coating solution MIS. No.1 has been examined as to its suitability as possible replacement for chromate containing formulations on magnesium alloys. Investigations have concentrated on the formation of passive film from simple MIS. No.1 solution using immersion. The morphology of passivated surfaces was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The corrosion resistance of the passivated surfaces and the painted surface was assessed using electrochemical techniques as well as humidity and salt fog tests. It was concluded that the surface treatment magnesium alloy by MIS.No.1 solution is more effective than that by chromate coating treatment, and the MIS.No.1 coating is also suitable for painting's pretreatment.

Key words: non chromate conversion coating, magnesium alloy, passivation, corrosion resistance.