This specification establishes the engineering requirements for producing anodic coatings on magnesium and magnesium alloys, from an alkaline electrolyte and the properties of those coatings.

This coating has been used typically to increase corrosion resistance and to provide surfaces which will improve paint adhesion, but usage is not limited to such applications. The process is applicable to all cast and wrought magnesium alloys, after proper allowances are made for dimensional changes intrinsic to the process, but should not be employed on parts which are subject to flexure.