Laser-melted surfaces fabricated on MAO films in Al and Si electrolytes

Abstract

In order to improve the functions of microarc oxidation (MAO) films, the current work investigated the effects of the laser surface melting (LSM) process on MAO films fabricated in different electrolytes. A series of processing experiments was carried out on the composite films. In detail, MAO films using aluminum (Al) and silicon (Si) electrolytes were prepared on a Ti–6Al–4V alloy surface and then treated by using the LSM process. At the same time, the properties of the films, such as phases and morphology, were characterized and analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results showed that moderate-intensity plasma was more easily obtained on the silicon MAO (Si-MAO) films than on the aluminum MAO (Al-MAO) ones. Similarly, a higher laser power was necessary to liquefy or gasify alumina (Al2O3). Compared with the defective structure of Al-MAO film after LSM, the structure of the Si-MAO film was almost free of defects. The film morphologies showed that an MAO film with low porosity and a smooth surface can be obtained after LSM treatment using proper parameters. In conclusion, the composite silicate system process using the silicon electrolyte had better modification performance.