Damping properties of a novel porous Mg–Al alloy coating prepared by arc ion plating

Hard coatings, such as metallic and ceramic coatings, are practical to reduce vibration in aircraft. A novel porous Mg–Al alloy coating was prepared by arc ion plating with D.C. bias on substrate. The composition, surface morphology and structure properties of coating were characterized. The binding strength, elastic modulus and micro hardness were also examined. The damping properties of coated samples were characterized by damping capacity (Q− 1). The results showed that Mg–Al alloy coating was composed of Mg, Al0.58Mg0.42 and Al12Mg17 phases. The coating was porous and was able to improve the substrateʹs damping performance. Therefore, it is feasible for the Mg–Al alloy coating to be used as damping treatments.