High Performance Materials by Laser Deposition

Abstract

Additive Manufacturing using laser deposition has a great deal of attractiveness as a fabrication technique for metals and alloys. The combination of a high heat input, small molten volume, and incremental addition also is well suited for the production of high performance alloys and composites. The high cooling rates inherent in the process produces refined microstructures, leading to excellent as-deposited mechanical properties in conventional alloys. The high heating rates and cooling rates potentially lends itself to structurally amorphous alloys, functionally gradient materials, and nanostructured materials, among other more exotic metallic materials. By monitoring the process a map of the quality of the build can be recorded for quality assurance and validation. Flaws detected during fabrication can then be repaired in-situ. Realizing this potential will require a combination of modeling, experimental validation, and new design paradigms. Together this will lead to the greatest properties and functionalities in future products.