Process optimization in laser surface structuring of alumina

The efficacy of pulsed Nd:YAG laser for the laser surface structuring (dressing) of porous alumina ceramic was optimized using the Taguchi analytical procedure. The laser processing parameters like the pulse width, repetition rate and the scanning speed were evaluated and the factors essential to optimize the interdendritic porosity and grain size were predicted. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) helped to identify the processing parameters that contributed the most to minimize the porosity and maximize the grain size. The pulse repetition rate was the most significant factor in minimizing the interdendritic porosity while the scanning speed played a vital role in increasing the grain size. The Taguchi method could yield a combination of different process parameters that could be used to optimize the microstructural features.