Mechanical and morphological analysis of laser transmission welded dissimilar plastics using metal absorber

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the laser transmission welding (LTW) of polystyrene and polycarbonate using an electrolytic iron powder absorber. For this purpose, the experiments are performed to explore the effect of laser power and scan speed on the weld strength and bond morphology. The lap shear tests are conducted to obtain the breaking force and ductility of the welded joints. The fractured surface and cross-sections are analyzed by scanning electron and optical microscopy to investigate the bond morphology and bonding mechanism of the weldments. The results show that laser power and scan speed significantly affect the weld strength and ductility of the joints. The optical and scanning electron micrographs clarify that mechanical anchoring of iron particles, polymeric interdiffusion, and small bubbles enhance the bond strength but thermal degradation, burning, and large bubbles negatively affect the bonding.