Anodizing

From Combat Robot

Anodizing is a technique used to coat the surface of a metal with a hard oxide layer. It may be used to increase corrosion resistance, increase wear resistance, allow dyeing or prepare the surface for other processes and coatings including paint. Anodization changes the microscopic texture of the surface and can change the crystal structure of the metal near the surface. The process derives its name from the fact that the part to be treated forms the anode portion of an electrical circuit in this electrolytic process.

Anodization is frequently used to protect aluminum and titanium from abrasion and corrosion and to allow it to be dyed in a wide range of colors.