Surface Micro Patterning of Aluminium Reinforced Composite through Laser Peening

Abstract

Aluminium Composites have universal engineering applications because of their higher strength to weight ratio, ductility, and formability. However, in diverse applications, mechanical properties are the prerequisite at closer surface regions. Such localized changes without impacting various surface treatment approaches can attempt the bulk phase. Laser peening is an advanced surface engineering technique, which has been successfully applied to improve the surface morphology of the material. In this work, the authors focus on improving the surface properties of Al7075 composite through laser peening technique. The hardened layer was evaluated using surface integrity with optical microscopy, EDS, SEM and analysis of microhardness. Process parameters and resulting microstructures of Aluminium composite are summarized, along with the impact of laser peening on surface properties. Research results indicated that laser peening shows a significant influence on the final condition of the surface layer of Aluminium composite.