Laser surface texturing and related techniques for enhancing tribological performance of engineering materials: A review

Surface texturing is one of the most efficient surface modification approaches for improving the tribological performance of engineering materials. Several surface texturing techniques have been developed in recent years. Among these methods, laser surface texturing (LST) has gained considerable interests due to its high flexibility, superior texturing accuracy, and good controllability. This paper reviews the recent advances and developments of LST for enhanced tribological properties of engineering materials. The process designs of LST by means of direct laser ablation, laser interference, and laser shock processing are discussed. The effects of laser parameters on the texture features are highlighted. The enhanced tribological properties of LST-processed materials and their applications on various fields are reviewed. The current challenges and future directions of LST techniques are discussed.