Black oxide

Black oxide or blackening is a conversion coating for ferrous materials, stainless steel, copper and copper based alloys, zinc, powdered metals, and silver solder. It is used to add mild corrosion resistance, for appearance, and to minimize light reflection. To achieve maximal corrosion resistance the black oxide must be impregnated with oil or wax. Dual target magnetron sputtering (DMS) is used for preparing black oxide coatings. One of its advantages over other coatings is its minimal buildup.