The analysis of the surface of the electropolished samples
by SEM—scanning electron microscopy (Fig. 6) allowed the
characterization of the surface states obtained under different
electrolysis conditions that lead to different brightness
intensities. The SEM micrograph obtained for a steel sample
electrolyzed under conditions that led to a surface classified
as opaque (Fig. 6a) reveals a quite rugose surface. The SEM
micrograph obtained for an electrolyzed steel sample classified
as semi-bright (Fig. 6b) shows that, as itwas expected, the
surface roughness was significantly decreased, compared to
that shown in Fig. 6a. Additionally, the SEM micrograph obtained
for an electropolished steel sample classified as bright
(Fig. 6c) shows that the steel surface became quite uniform
and leveled, practically without any roughness whatsoever.
These results clearly confirm, as itwas expected, that the steel
surface brightness intensity is directly related to the state of
the obtained electropolished surface.