Surface texturing of aluminium alloy AA2024-T3 by picosecond laser: Effect on wettability and corrosion properties

• Published in: Surface & coatings technology 2017-07, Vol.321, p.279-291
• Main Authors: Ahuir-Torres, J.I., Arenas, M.A., Perrie, W., Dearden, G., de Damborenea, J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aluminium alloy; Aluminum alloys; Aluminum base alloys; Corrosion; Corrosion effects; Density; Dimpling; Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy; Laser beam texturing; Laser texturing; Lasers; Open circuit voltage; SEM; Spectrum analysis; Wettability
• ISSN: 0257-8972; 1879-3347
• DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2017.04.056

The effects of laser texturing on the corrosion and wettability of AA2024-T3 using an IR Nd:Vanadate picosecond (ps) laser was studied. Three types of texture patterns were generated: dimples with 5% and 50% area density (percentage of surface area textured); cross groove patterns with an area density of 64%; and concentric ring patterns with an area density of 70%. For the higher area densities, the surface character changed from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. The evolution of the open circuit potential over time, potentiodynamic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were then investigated and analysed. The results revealed that ultrashort ps laser surface texturing did not modify the corrosion behaviour of AA 2024-T3 in the test solution. [Display omitted] •Picoseconds laser system allows texturing different patterns on AA 2024-T3.•Dimples, crossed grooves and concentric rings were generated on the surface.•No microstructural changes and no re-dissolution of phases occurs at the surface.•Laser texturing can change the wettability properties of the alloy.•Textured surfaces do not reveal changes on the corrosion resistance of the alloy.