Surface properties of laser-woven magnesium alloys based on dot-matrix processing

Abstract This paper investigates the enhancement of surface properties of magnesium alloys through infrared nanosecond laser processing with a focus on creating hydrophobic and wear-resistant surfaces. By manipulating dot-matrix microgroove sizes on the magnesium alloy surfaces, the research evaluates the influence on hydrophobicity and mechanical durability. The experimental results reveal that larger microgrooves contribute to increased hydrophobicity due to decreased liquid-solid contact, confirmed by static contact angle measurements which align with predictions from the Cassie-Baxter model. Mechanical durability tests, involving sandpaper abrasion, demonstrate that the surface integrity is maintained despite wear, attributed to the effective laser-texturing approach. The hydrophobic surfaces were achieved through a low-surface-energy modification using fluorosilanes, followed by a thermal treatment to ensure durability. The findings highlight the potential of this processing method in applications requiring robust, hydrophobic materials such as biomedical and engineering materials, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution for industry-scale problems. This work not only extends the understanding of surface engineering via laser texturing but also provides a novel approach for optimizing surface properties crucial for advanced material applications.