Surface modification of NiTi alloy by ultrashort pulsed laser shock peening

This research paper presents the attempt at ultrashort pulsed laser shock peening with absence of absorptive layer and confining medium which could enhance surface microhardness and the abrasion property of NiTi shape memory alloy. The average roughness values of NiTi specimen were measured on the surface, because the roughness would affect the friction resistance. The microhardness and Young's modulus were investigated at different position of single laser spot by nanoindentation technique. The pin-on-plate sliding abrasion testing were performed with different load-force (0.5 N and 2 N) for different testing time. Results showed that ultrashort pulsed laser shock peening treatment would cause a significant improvement on friction coefficient and abrasion property, which was attributed to the change of surface modification, such as roughness, microhardness, microstructure and titanium oxide layer, but the ultrashort pulsed laser shock peening treatment did not enhance its tensile strength during present research. •The NiTi shape memory alloy was treated by ultrashort pulsed laser shock peening.•The laser treatment enhanced the surface microhardness.•Ultrashort pulsed laser shock peening treatment can improve the surface wear resistance of NiTi alloy.