Analysis of oxide formation induced by UV laser coloration of stainless steel

Laser-induced coloration on metal surfaces has important applications in product identification, enhancing styles and aesthetics. The color generation is the result of controlled surface oxidation during laser beam interaction with the metal surfaces. In this study, we aim to obtain in-depth understanding of the oxide formation process when an UV laser beam interacts with stainless steel in air. The oxide layer is analysed by means of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometer (TOF-SIMS). TOF-SIMS results clearly show the formation of duplex oxide structures. The duplex structure includes an inner layer of Cr oxide solution and an outer layer of Fe oxide solution. The oxide layer thickness increased as the results of Fe diffusion to surface during multiple laser scanning passes.