Surface characterization and mechanical property evaluation of thermally oxidized Ti-6Al-4V

The present study concerns development of a thin and adherent oxide film on the surface of Ti-6Al-4V by thermal oxidation. Thermal oxidation was carried out over a range of temperature between 400 to 600 °C and a time from 25 h to 60 h. A detailed characterization of the surface and cross section of the oxidized surface was carried out by optical/scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques. Finally, the mechanical properties of the oxidized surface in terms of microindentation hardness and wear resistance were evaluated as a function of oxidation parameters. Surface oxidation of Ti-6Al-4V at 600 °C for 36 h offered a defect free oxide scale with improved hardness and wear resistance.