Microstructural characteristics and material removal mechanisms in nano-scale finished surface of mirror-like injection mould fabricated by laser metal deposition and post treatments

•The periodic surface defect regions in laser metal deposition specimen were found after surface finishing.•The material removal mechanisms of surface defect regions were revealed.•The microstructural homogenization can be realized by both laser-surface-heat treatment and vacuum-furnace-heat treatment.•The laser-surface-heat treatment can synchronously improve both surface quality and performance of mirror-like injection moulds.