This sample was already etched and left for a few days then taken to SEM, I am curious about the "wrinkle-like" features on the surface. Could this be an oxide layer forming on the surface? Or is this a feature of the alloy itself. Im also thinking if it could possibly be some shrinkage cracks from the casting process?
Hello, it looks like selective resolution at the grain/phase boundaries. The white edges at the "wrinkled features" can be corrosion products (non-conductive = white in SEM). You really want to clean the surface well after etching and store the sample under extreme dry conditions. Otherwise, any remaining etchant may corrode your sample.
Dear Dr. Shatha Almarri,
these forms of attack could be related to the dissolution of intermetallic phases present in your alloy of Mg. You probably used too aggressive etching solution concentration or too long attack time. Try to dilute the solution and / or reduce the solution-sample contact time. Of course, at the end of the attack, it is necessary to eliminate the possible presence of an aggressive solution with a washing and subsequent drying.
Best regards, Pierluigi Traverso
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