Regulating material wettability through surface plastic deformation post-processing via friction modification

Abstract

The wettability of engineering materials significantly influences their cleaning and antifreeze properties, making it a key consideration in aerospace applications. Methods for controlling surface plastic deformation can alter the wettability of materials and contribute to a certain level of strengthening effect, thereby presenting significant application potential. This study aimed to modify the wetting characteristics of aviation titanium alloys in harsh environments through adjustments in surface roughness via peening treatments (such as laser shock peening with coating and mechanical shot peening). The impact of various peening processes on wetting characteristics was investigated through comprehensive surface energy, macro, and nano morphology analyses. Static contact angle measurements were quantified, followed by evaluating other properties, such as surface free energy. Through adjustments in post-treatment processes and control of surface roughness, tailored acquisition of wetting characteristics was achieved. This study elucidates the beneficial effect of surface plastic deformation post-processing on controlling material wettability and introducing strengthening effects. Additionally, the study indicates the importance of accurately determining the sampling range for precise characterization of material wettability.