Surface microstructure evolution and enhanced properties of Ti-6Al-4V using scanning electron beam

Enhanced surface properties of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy are crucial for optimizing its overall performance and reliability. In this study, scanning electron beam treatment was employed to enhance its surface properties. The results demonstrate a nonlinear decrease in hardness with increasing depth, while the surface microhardness increased to 422.6 HV 0.1, representing a 1.4 times enhancement compared to the substrate. The wear volume was decreased from 0.5045 mm³ before treatment to 0.2498 mm³, resulting in a >2 times enhancement in wear resistance. Additionally, the corrosion current density of the treated material decreased by an order of magnitude, while the corrosion potential and charge transfer resistance increased. These improvements in surface properties can be attributed to the treatment with a scanning electron beam, which induces phase transformation and refines the microstructure into more acicular α' phases. This process enhances surface hardness and facilitates the formation of a more robust passive layer, thereby enhancing the material's wear resistance and corrosion resistance. This study provides valuable insights and methodologies for enhancing the surface properties of Ti-6Al-4V alloy.