02-Sep-2015, 20:50
Anodizing via acid electroplating self-etches a crystalline layer of aluminum oxide into the aluminum surface... a compound of crystallized aluminum & oxygen forms the mineral Corundum which can also, with other trace metal elements added form rubies and/or sapphires. Aluminum oxide is best known for its use as an abrasive as it outlives and outperforms silica (sand) due to inherent hardness and doesn't like to 'load-up' or wear out as easily as regular sandpaper does. Basically it envelopes and etches itself into the aluminum then hardens, rendering its surface layer crystalline, although not necessarily shiny, non-conductive and "harder than Chinese arithmetic to an English teacher."
Statements in my posts are opinion only, not to be construed as fact. Any projects I engage in are at my own risk! Their outcome cannot be assured and may result in success, small/no change or catastrophic failure. I encourage no one rely on anything I say or do as gospel and to realize your mileage may vary!
