Electrolytic colouring of anodized aluminium on tin basis

Abstract The aim of the study was to find parameters of electrolytic colouring on tin basis to form uniform black coatings on anodized aluminium. A two steps electrolytic process consisting of aluminium anodization in a sulphuric acid electrolyte and colouring in tin acidic electrolyte was used. Among parameters influencing the colouring process, AC colouring voltage, composition of the counter electrode and agitation of the colouring electrolyte were studied. Spectrocolorimetry was applied to analyse the quality of the colouring. Thickness of the coloured and sealed anodized specimens was also evaluated. Optimal parameters for uniform colouring of anodized specimens were found. Unfortunately, colouring electrolyte on tin basis is susceptible to oxidation which negatively influences the colouring.