Surface treatment of aluminum matrix composites using a high power diode laser

High power diode laser was used to modify the surface of aluminum matrix composites reinforced with SiC particles. Laser surface melting allows obtaining composites with increased corrosion resistance and surface hardness. The improvement of these properties is explained by microstructural homogenization and grain refinement of the laser treated surface. The processing parameters and their relationship with the mechanical and electrochemical properties of the modified surfaces are described.