The Effect of Laser Shock Processing on the Anti-Corrosion Performance of LENS-Fabricated Ti-6Al-4V Alloy

Abstract

Titanium alloys are prone to increased oxidation rates when exposed to higher temperatures during application. As a result, the components suffer mechanical failure due to the formation of the alpha-case layer at 500 °C. To improve its corrosion and oxidation properties, and ultimately its mechanical performance, it is necessary to modify its surface properties. In this study, a LENS 3D-printing system was used to fabricate titanium alloy sample coupons, while surface treatment was performed using laser shock processing (LSP) to improve the surface properties. The characterisation of the samples was performed to establish a basis for the corrosion behaviour of the 3D-printed material and the effect of LSP treatment on the rate of corrosion. The samples fabricated at the moderate laser energy density of 249 J/mm3 showed the best-performing properties as the microstructures that evolved showed elevated hardness profiles, which were associated with material property improvements such as high strength and corrosion resistance. After subjecting the samples to LSP treatment, the properties of the LENS samples showed a further improvement in corrosion resistance.

A Comprehensive Review of Surface Modification Techniques for Enhancing the Biocompatibility of 3D-Printed Titanium Implants

“…LSE enables precise localized processing, allowing for the fine control of the Ti alloy surface at the microscale. Arthur et al [25] researched using 3D-printed Ti alloys and laser shock treatment to improve the surface properties of Ti alloys, thereby enhancing corrosion resistance and mechanical performance. Simões et al [26] provided a comprehensive review of the effects of high-power lasers on the performance of Ti alloy implant surfaces, demonstrating that laser treatment can increase the biocompatibility and bone integration ability of Ti alloy surfaces [73].…”