Magnesium and magnesium alloys are difficult to prepare samples due to their low matrix hardness and high precipitation phase hardness. In addition, magnesium alloys are prone to water erosion, so water should not be used throughout the entire sample preparation process, especially in the subsequent polishing steps. Choosing an alumina polishing solution also requires selecting a type that is anhydrous and has a high removal rate, in order to achieve the goal of rapid preparation. Therefore, the correct selection of alumina polishing solution as the finishing polishing agent is crucial for the speed and quality of sample preparation.


Why does choosing alumina polishing fluid emphasize the importance of choosing the right one? This is because the same type of aluminum oxide polishing solution has different applications due to differences in solvent, acidity, and alkalinity, as well as the morphology of aluminum oxide grinding particles. If these subtle differences are not paid attention to, they can easily be selected incorrectly, resulting in slow sample preparation or surface failure to meet experimental requirements.

    Common types of alumina polishing fluids


The first type, universal aluminum oxide polishing solution: milky white suspension, pH value 8.5, particle size 0.05 μ m. Dispersibility, uniform particle size, suitable for the preparation of material samples such as minerals, iron-based metals, low melting point alloys, carbide printed circuit boards, precious metals, and electronic components.


The second type, agglomerated alumina polishing solution, milky white suspension, neutral, with a particle size of 1 μ m. 0.3 μ M and 0.05 μ There are three types of particle sizes. This agglomerated alumina polishing solution has better removal efficiency than other alumina polishing solutions with the same particle size, and is a polishing agent close to anhydrous, especially suitable for polishing magnesium, lead, and their alloys.


The third type, non agglomerated alumina polishing solution, milky white suspension, neutral, dispersed, particle size 1 μ M and 0.3 μ There are two types of M, with uniform particle size. Compared to agglomerated alumina polishing solution, the surface polishing effect is better, but the removal rate is weaker, so the polishing will be slower. Suitable for polishing most metals and minerals.

Cast magnesium alloy (acetic acid Picric acid etchant, cross polarized light+photosensitive, 100X)

    Preparation of magnesium and magnesium alloy samples using agglomerated alumina polishing solution


By understanding these types of alumina polishing solutions, one can choose the appropriate alumina polishing solution according to their sample material type and preparation purpose. By selecting the right solution, one can quickly and well prepare the ideal sample surface, otherwise it may bring some adverse effects.


For the preparation of metallographic samples of magnesium and magnesium alloys, there is no doubt that choosing a agglomerated alumina polishing solution is a good choice. A solvent close to anhydrous will not cause corrosion to the sample μ M to 0.05 μ The particle size selection of m can also meet the needs of polishing well; Agglomerated grinding particles can fully exert their graceful grindability on surfaces such as magnesium that are difficult to prepare, effectively improving the efficiency and quality of sample preparation. To prepare metallographic samples of magnesium and magnesium alloys quickly and well, choose agglomerated alumina polishing solution as your polishing agent.