Summary

Titanium aluminides have become promising materials for high-temperature applications, but the relatively poor oxidation resistance and elevated-temperature strength of these alloys limit their application to temperatures lower than 1000 degrees C. Niobium addition improves the properties of titanium aluminide. However, the mechanical, metallurgical, and corrosion properties of Ti-Al-Nb may be improved by treatment with a laser beam. Consequently, the present study examines the properties of Ti-15Al-20Nb alloy subjected to the Nd:YAG laser melting process. Hardness in the surface region increases to twice the base material hardness, and corrosion resistance improves considerably after laser treatment