The Laser Deposition of Ceramic Particles Coated with High-Reflectivity Metals
John C.Betts, B.L. Mordike, A. Zammit and M. Grech
The absorption of laser radiation by particles in flight during Direct Laser Deposition (DLD) processes is one of the mechanisms by means of which heat is transferred to a deposition melt pool. The energy absorbed by the particles together with their flight time would determine their state on entering the molten clad, and would have an important effect on the outcome of the process and on their continued survival until solidification. The coating of ceramic particles with reflective metals and their use in the deposition of ceramic/metal composite surfaces is investigated, and the outcome of the process is presented.