A Novel Laser Shock Surface Patterning Process Toward Tribological Applications

We report a novel laser-based surface processing process, indirect-laser shock surface patterning (indirect-LSSP), integrating both surface strengthening and patterning effects might lead to broader impacts in tribology research and applications. This process utilizes the laser-induced shockwave loadings to introduce the surface strengthening and patterning effects simultaneously, leading to the fabrication of anti-skew surfaces with arrays of micro-indentations for the enhanced wear resistance and manipulated friction values. Indirect-LSSP experiments were carried out on AISI 1045 steels. The 3D surface profiles after LSSP were characterized. The hardness of surface patterns prepared by laser processing was measured. The friction values as affected by laser processing parameters were measured by sliding tests. The relationships among laser processing parameters, micro-feature characteristics, and COF were discussed.