Abstract: A method for treating the surface of aluminum alloys having a relatively high copper content is provided which includes the steps of removing substantially all of the copper from the surface, contacting the surface with a first solution containing cerium, electrically charging the surface while contacting the surface in an aqueous molybdate solution, and contacting the surface with a second solution containing cerium. The copper is substantially removed from the surface in the first step either by (i) contacting the surface with an acidic chromate solution or by (ii) contacting the surface with an acidic nitrate solution while subjecting the surface to an electric potential. The corrosion-resistant surface resulting from the invention is excellent, consistent and uniform throughout the surface. Surfaces treated by the invention may often be certified for use in salt-water services.

Abstract: A beta titanium-fiber reinforced composite laminate comprising at least one layer of beta titanium alloy and at least one layer of fiber reinforced composite, wherein the layer of beta titanium alloy has a yield strength to modulus of elasticity ratio that is substantially similar to the strength to modulus of elasticity ratio of the first layer of fiber reinforced composite.