The shift to electric vehicles is reshaping the demands placed on materials and supply chains. A new study by Transport & Environment (T&E) highlights aluminium as a key lever – and green aluminium as a viable route to significantly reducing emissions. Aluminium plays a critical role in EV design – from battery housings to chassis
In many production environments, energy costs have become one of the most important factors influencing the economic efficiency of industrial processes. Over recent months, energy prices have increased significantly in many regions, creating additional cost pressure for energy-intensive industries. In particular, anodising and coating operations are directly affected by this development, as energy consumption has
Anodising is one of the most established methods for finishing aluminium surfaces. However, even minor deviations in the process can lead to visible defects and non-saleable surfaces. This article outlines three common error patterns – and how to prevent them reliably. Iridescent Discolouration Due to Contact Faults After anodising, some components show iridescent rainbow colours
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed a wide-ranging restriction on the use of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) compounds. Known as potent workplace carcinogens, these substances are already subject to REACH authorisation – but could now face a general ban across the EU1. For businesses involved in metal pre-treatment – particularly aluminium – this signals a
Alufinish is pleased to announce the approval of two innovative pre-treatment systems for aluminium surface treatment in the anodising sector. The certificates for Alfinox 510 (ENSAVAL process) and Alfiseal 1960 were officially awarded by the Qualanod Quality Association on 17 June 2025. This means that both products can now also be used in Qualanod member
Aluminium is a versatile material – but transparent? The possibility of converting aluminium into a transparent form is not new — but until now, this was only possible at great technical and financial expense. Researchers at the Ateneo de Manila University (Philippines) have now developed a simplified process that produces transparent aluminium oxide (TAlOx) in