CORROSION STUDIES OF Al 7075 ALLOY REINFORCED WITH ZIRCON METAL MATRIX COMPOSITES

In the early stage of human civilization, man functioned like a biochemical machine deriving energy from the solar power through electrochemical reactions. Later, machines were fabricated to suit the needs of man and became a part of everyday life. A major obstacle, however, was noticed very soon – the machines started rusting. The study of rusting began with the realization that it affected the performance of machines and destroyed the metal fabrications. Measures were introduced to prevent the rusting process which initially involved coating of the metal surface with coal tar paints followed by galvanizing, tinning and electroplating.