Laser-based Surface Modifications of Aluminum and its Alloys

Abstract

Aluminum (Al) and its alloys have widespread engineering applications because of their higher strength to weight ratio, ductility, and formability. However, in various applications, mechanical properties such as hardness, corrosion, wear, and fatigue resistance are prerequisite at near surface regions. Such localized modification without affecting the bulk phase can be performed by various surface-engineering approaches including electro-deposition, physical and chemical vapor depositions, thermal spraying, plasma spraying, and organic polymeric coatings. Delamination failure of such coatings from the substrate is often inevitable due to the difference in film-to-substrate elastic modulus associated with the aforementioned processes. Recently, researchers have adopted a new approach of laser surface engineering to modify the near surface regions of metallic substrate by laser beams resulting in superior mechanical properties with the formation of novel microstructures. In this article, the recent developments in the surface modification of Al and its alloy by laser treatment are reviewed. Processing parameters and resulting microstructures of Al and its alloys are briefly summarized, along with their impact on mechanical properties. Finally, this article concludes future research directions.

Keywords:

• aluminum
• laser surface modification
• surface engineering
• mechanical properties

Funding

The authors would like to acknowledge the financial support provided by the Institute of Research Management and Consultancy, University of Malaya (UM) under the PRPUM (Program rakan penyelidikan universiti malaya) Funded Project No. CG061-2013. This research work is also partially provided by University of Malaya Research Grant (UMRG) under the IPPP (Institut Pengurusan Penyelidikan dan Perundingan) Fund Project No.: RPO13A-13AET.