Sealing is the final step in the anodizing process. By closing the porous oxide layer, sealing protects anodized aluminum against corrosion, contamination and environmental exposure, ensuring long-term performance and visual stability.
Sealing works by converting or closing the porous anodized structure, limiting the penetration of moisture, pollutants and aggressive substances. This step is essential for achieving consistent performance in both interior and exterior environments.
Through sealing, anodized aluminum gains increased corrosion resistance, improved stain resistance and long-term colour stability.
Sealing transforms the open porous oxide layer into a closed surface, forming the foundation for durability and resistance.
By limiting exposure to moisture and contaminants, sealing significantly increases resistance to corrosion and surface degradation.
Proper sealing ensures anodized aluminum remains visually consistent and technically reliable throughout its service life.
AluGuard® is Alumet’s proprietary sealing innovation, developed to enhance traditional sealing performance in environments where anodized aluminum faces extreme exposure, such as contact with concrete, cement water or high-pH substances.
Rather than replacing sealing, AluGuard® builds upon it, adding an additional protective layer within the anodized structure.
The AluGuard process begins with a nickel-free pre-sealing step. A non-heavy-metal solution penetrates the pores of the anodized layer, forming a protective complex within the structure and increasing resistance to corrosion and chemical attack.
Following pre-sealing, the aluminum undergoes a controlled hot sealing process. During this step, the anodic oxide layer is converted into a hydrated film, providing an additional barrier against mechanical wear and environmental exposure.
During construction, anodized aluminum may come into contact with concrete, cement water and other alkaline materials. AluGuard® significantly increases resistance to these conditions, helping prevent irreversible surface damage and discoloration.
The process has been rigorously tested and approved under QUALANOD and BS3987, demonstrating its suitability for demanding architectural applications.
