Overview of Surface Modification Techniques for Titanium Alloys in Modern Material Science: A Comprehensive Analysis

Titanium alloys are acclaimed for their remarkable biocompatibility, high specific strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and stable performance in high and low temperatures. These characteristics render them invaluable in a multitude of sectors, including biomedicine, shipbuilding, aerospace, and daily life. According to the different phases, the alloys can be broadly categorized into α-titanium and β-titanium, and these alloys demonstrate unique properties shaped by their respective phases. The hexagonal close-packed structure of α-titanium alloys is notably associated with superior high-temperature creep resistance but limited plasticity. Conversely, the body-centered cubic structure of β-titanium alloys contributes to enhanced slip and greater plasticity. To optimize these alloys for specific industrial applications, alloy strengthening is often necessary to meet diverse environmental and operational demands. The impact of various processing techniques on the microstructure and metal characteristics of titanium alloys is reviewed and discussed in this research. This article systematically analyzes the effects of machining, shot peening, and surface heat treatment methods, including surface quenching, carburizing, and nitriding, on the structure and characteristics of titanium alloys. This research is arranged and categorized into three categories based on the methods of processing and treatment: general heat treatment, thermochemical treatment, and machining. The results of a large number of studies show that surface treatment can significantly improve the hardness and friction mechanical properties of titanium alloys. At present, a single treatment method is often insufficient. Therefore, composite treatment methods combining multiple treatment techniques are expected to be more widely used in the future. The authors provide an overview of titanium alloy modification methods in recent years with the aim of assisting and promoting further research in the very important and promising direction of multi-technology composite treatment.