Development of a green technology for aluminum anodization****

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Anodization plays an important role in the design and construction of aircraft and other aerospace related components. Shimco North America Inc. (Cambridge, Ontario) has served the aerospace, defense, space, and other industries with precision manufactured parts for over 30 years. Chromic acid anodization is primarily used to protect critical structures that involve various joints, with excellent corrosion resistance. However, there are significant environmental concerns related to this process, as hexavalent chromium is carcinogenic and has extremely detrimental effects on both human health and the ambient environment. The objectives of this NSERC Engage research project include: (i) the development of a novel green anodization technique to replace Shimco's chromic acid anodization process; and (ii) the improvement of Shimco's sulfuric acid anodization process. The development of a green alternative to chromic acid anodization is of critical importance to the sustainability of the production of anodized aluminum components. This is an urgent priority for Canadian research and industry, as Europe has already proceeded to phase out the use of chromic acid, and the rest of the world is sure to soon follow. The improvement of these anodization processes will not only allow for the further expanded production of anodized aluminum for aerospace applications, but also reduce their environmental footprints. Shimco is the only shim manufacturer in Canada; it plans to design and build an anodizing production line based on the results of this proposed research. The successful development of green anodization techniques will allow Canadian manufacturers to remain competitive in the anodized aluminum market, once the phasing out of chromic acid anodization has begun. Moreover, this project will support the training of HQP for the aerospace engineering sector in the creation of new jobs, as the anodized aluminum market continues to develop in Canada.