SURFACE MODIFICATIONS OF MG-LI ALLOYS BY LASER ALLOYING AND BY LASER PARTICLE IMPREGNATION

The present paper deals with the changes in microstructure and the alt ered mechanical properties in the surface of laser treated Mg-Li alloy s. The modifications are obtained by laser alloying or by laser partic le impregnation. Laser alloying induces ternary or quaternary systems in a defined surface layer, showing a considerably higher hardness com pared to that of the substrate material. The incorporation of ceramic particles (SiC) leads to a substantial decrease of the wear rate.