Recent advances in laser surface treatment of titanium alloys

Abstract

This paper reviews progress over the last five years in the field of laser surface modification of titanium alloys. The authors analyze the effect of new laser technologies and new materials as tools for improving surface properties—specifically, biocompatibility and resistance to wear, corrosion, and high temperatures. The authors discuss the effect of laser processing parameters on the microstructure and compare the results obtained by various researchers. Therefore, an overview of the difficulties involved in the laser processing of titanium is provided with a discussion of future prospects.