image: Researchers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have developed a ceramic-based aluminide coating that protects steel and superalloys against corrosion, oxidation and other adverse chemical reactions. The coating is economical, easy to apply and does not chip off. An electron micrograph of a coated 316 stainless steel coupon in cross-section shows the diffusion-reaction layers. Starting from the left hand side of the photo, which is the surface of the steel the following layers are visible: 1) Aluminum oxide outer layer (not visible at lower magnifications) 2) FeAl layer, 3) Fe3Al inner layer, and 4) 316SS. view more
Credit: Courtesy of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.