Anodising
Anodising is an electrochemical process that converts a metal surface into a decorative and often protective anodic oxide finish. The anodic oxide structure is made up of a layer of metal oxide on the surface which slightly increases the thickness of the metal. The oxide is not attached to the surface like a paint or plate but is fully integrated with the underlying substrate, which helps to stop chipping or peeling. It also has a porous structure which allows for further processing such as colouring and sealing.
Aluminium is ideally suited to anodizing, although other nonferrous metals, such as magnesium and titanium, also can be anodized. The anodic oxide structure originates from the aluminium substrate and is composed entirely of aluminium oxide
Anodising is a process of controlled oxidation (in effect the same process as rusting). It involves a tank where aluminium is immersed into an acid electrolyte bath, a cathode is mounted to the inside of the tank and an electric current is passed through the aluminium. As this happens the aluminium acts as an anode, causing oxygen ions to be released from the electrolyte and combine with the aluminium atoms at the surface of the part being anodized, this creates a thickened, protective, integrated layer.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Aluminium.
- Brass.
- Brittle fracture.
- Corrosion coupons.
- Corrosion inhibitor.
- Corrosion resistance.
- Corrosion resistant alloy CRA.
- Crevice corrosion.
- Deterioration.
- Electrochemistry.
- Electrochemical cell.
- Failure of cast iron beams.
- Galvanised steel.
- Galvanic corrosion.
- Graphitisation.
- Guidance for construction quality management professionals: Structural Steelwork.
- Hydrogen embrittlement.
- Iron.
- Marine corrosion.
- Microbiologically influenced corrosion.
- Pitting.
- Rust.
- Steel.
- Stainless steel.
- Types of metal.
- Types of steel.
- Under-deposit corrosion.
Featured articles and news
Call for greater recognition of professional standards
Chartered bodies representing more than 1.5 million individuals have written to the UK Government.
Cutting carbon, cost and risk in estate management
Lessons from Cardiff Met’s “Halve the Half” initiative.
Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future
Technical Manager at ECA on the importance of engagement between industry and education.
Repairing historic stone and slate roofs
The need for a code of practice and technical advice note.
Environmental compliance; a checklist for 2026
Legislative changes, policy shifts, phased rollouts, and compliance updates to be aware of.
UKCW London to tackle sector’s most pressing issues
AI and skills development, ecology and the environment, policy and planning and more.
Managing building safety risks
Across an existing residential portfolio; a client's perspective.
ECA support for Gate Safe’s Safe School Gates Campaign.
Core construction skills explained
Preparing for a career in construction.
Retrofitting for resilience with the Leicester Resilience Hub
Community-serving facilities, enhanced as support and essential services for climate-related disruptions.
Some of the articles relating to water, here to browse. Any missing?
Recognisable Gothic characters, designed to dramatically spout water away from buildings.
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.