PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to research the corrosion behavior of AM60B magnesium alloy in simulated acid rain. Specifically, this paper aims to investigate the effect of pH on the corrosion behavior of the alloy.Design/methodology/approachElectrochemical methods and surface analysis were applied to study the corrosion behavior of AM60B magnesium alloy in simulated acid rain.FindingsResults showed that changes in pH can influence the corrosion potential and corrosion current of the alloy. In particular, the anodic process was affected. The protective film on the surface of AM60B magnesium alloy was destroyed in simulated acid rain. The type of corrosion attack observed on the surface of the alloy was pitting damage. Numerous deep pits were formed on the surface. Corrosion products were mainly composed of MgO and MgAl2(SO4)4 · 2H2O.Originality/valueThe paper provides fundamental experimental data for clarifying the mechanism of the effects of acid rain on the corrosion of magnesium alloys.
