Plasma chemical oxidation (PCO) is a fascinating electrochemical process for creating ceramic-like layers on light metals. Here are some highlights about this innovative technology:

What is PCO?: Plasma chemical oxidation, also known as micro-arc oxidation (MAO) or electrolytic plasma oxidation (EPO), enables the formation of oxide layers on metals such as aluminum, titanium and magnesium. These layers are thick, hard and dense, similar to ceramic.

Advantages of PCO layers:
Improved corrosion resistance: The PCO layers protect the underlying metal from corrosion.
Increased wear resistance: They make the surface more resistant to wear.
Thermal insulation: PCO layers also serve as a thermal barrier.
Electrical Insulation: PCO layers acts as tension barrier,

Process and Application:
During the PCO process, the oxide layers grow on the substrate using high electrical voltages in a special galvanic tank.
The composition of the electrolytes and the electrical parameters influence the properties of the layers produced.
PCO is used in various areas including medical technology, optical devices and high-silicon aluminum alloys.

Developments and future:
PCO research began over twenty years ago in Jena.
New coating systems for magnesium alloys have been developed and the technology is constantly being improved.
In addition it´s possible, to create PCO layers as multilayer system on other materials.
PCO offers enormous potential for future applications and innovations.

Plasma chemical oxidation is an exciting field that pushes the boundaries of materials science.