A unique fiber laser processing of Z-A composite under dry, gas, liquid, and solid environments: A competitive ablation efficiency followed by surface analysis

Abstract

Compared to monolithic ceramics, the Z-A composite exhibits distinct behavior when stressed. It serves to impede the propagation of the crack's endpoint and retains its structural integrity. This intriguing quality makes it a choice for any high-stress supportive application that necessitates robustness, particularly in the medical industry. However, the laser processing of Z-A is quite sophisticated than monolithic ceramic due to its different thermal properties and varying energy absorption rates that are contingent upon the reinforcing material and matrix. The current investigation outlines a unique approach called FLSDM (fiber laser step-down milling) to create the squircle pattern on Z-A (uniquely by laser) for possible implications as a bone scaffold. The present work has also paid close attention to the effectiveness of laser processing factors (LPFs) that might affect the efficacy of ablation under the disparate states of environments like dry, liquid, gas, and solid. Moreover, this article asserts experimental inquisitions for an extensive comparative study on a short-pulse laser ablation efficiency and laser-treated surface (LTS) analysis under disparate environments. The study examines various aspects such as laser-induced surface morphology, crack behavior, crystal structure, bonding pattern, and phase transformation. The current FLSDM methodology exhibits its suitability by offering a possibility for the adoptable configuration on the Z-A to meet scaffold requirements.