Microstructure and properties of laser treated arc sprayed and plasma sprayed coatings

The effect of laser melting on the microstructure, porosity, chemical homogeneity of nickel based alloy plasma sprayed and (Fe–Cr–B)+Al based electric arc sprayed coatings has been investigated. Laser melting markedly improves coating microstructure and density, and much better chemical homogeneity is obtained. Laser treatment of coatings was carried out with the help of a CW CO2 laser (λ=10.6 μm) using the graphite based antireflection coating. The results demonstrate an improvement of mechanical and corrosion properties of coatings.