Laser coating of a Zr-based metallic glass on an aluminum substrate

Cladding of a Zr-based metallic glass (MG) on an aluminum substrate was conducted using a layer-wise laser additive manufacturing (AM) method, leading to relative densities higher than 99%. The thickness of the cladding was about 300 mu m. The effect of laser power on the bonding with the substrate was investigated. Laser parameters changed from the interface to the bulk of the cladding, such as to obtain both a highly amorphous coating, and excellent bonding with the substrate. The coating microstructures and properties were analyzed in terms of crystallized fraction and micro-hardness. The wear resistance of the cladding was 20 times better than that of the substrate.