Laser phase transformation and ion implantation in metals
US6454877B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 28, 2000 |
| Grant date | Sep 24, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 28, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC23C16/483
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method and apparatus are provided for treating the surface of a metal body through phase transformation, ion implantation, and/or diffusion and to form new phases of metallic materials. The method and apparatus have been shown to be particularly useful to improve the hardness and corrosion resistance of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Generally, the method comprises irradiating a portion of the metal body (18) with a laser (12), and directing a stream of gas (22) onto the same portion of the metal body simultaneously with and preferably for a duration after the laser is turned off. Preferably, the laser (12) is a carbon dioxide laser operated in a pulsed mode to control heating of the metal (18). The gas (22) is preferably carbon dioxide to quickly cool the metal when the laser is off, and to provide carbon atoms for deposition onto the body. The entire process may be carried out in an environment at atmospheric pressure, obviating the need for a vacuum chamber or pressure controlled furnace or similar apparatus. After treatment, the hardness and corrosion resistance of at least a ferrous body are dramatically increased. Advantageously, both sides of a thin metal body, such as a …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.