Investigation of the Corrosion Resistance of Additively Manufactured Titanium Alloys

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The demand for advanced materials with enhanced properties has led to the exploration of additive manufacturing techniques in the production of titanium alloys. This research project focuses on investigating the corrosion resistance of additively manufactured titanium alloys, a critical aspect in determining their suitability for various applications. The corrosion behavior of these alloys is crucial for industries such as aerospace, biomedical, and automotive, where exposure to harsh environments can compromise the structural integrity and performance of components. The study begins with a comprehensive literature review to establish the current understanding of corrosion mechanisms in titanium alloys and the influence of additive manufacturing processes on their properties. Various factors affecting corrosion resistance, including microstructure, surface finish, and alloy composition, will be analyzed to provide a theoretical background for the experimental investigation. The research methodology involves the fabrication of titanium alloy specimens using additive manufacturing techniques such as selective laser melting or electron beam melting. These specimens will undergo standardized corrosion tests, including immersion tests, electrochemical measurements, and surface analysis using techniques like scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The experimental parameters will be systematically varied to evaluate their impact on the corrosion behavior of the additively manufactured titanium alloys. The findings from the experimental work will be discussed in detail in Chapter Four, focusing on the corrosion resistance performance of different alloy compositions and processing parameters. The relationship between microstructural features, such as grain size, phase distribution, and defects, and the corrosion behavior of the alloys will be elucidated. Additionally, the influence of post-processing treatments, such as heat treatment and surface modification, on the corrosion resistance will be investigated. The conclusion and summary in Chapter Five will consolidate the key findings of the research, highlighting the critical insights gained regarding the corrosion resistance of additively manufactured titanium alloys. The significance of the results in the context of industrial applications will be discussed, emphasizing the potential for optimizing the corrosion performance of these advanced materials. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the understanding of the corrosion behavior of additively manufactured titanium alloys, offering valuable insights for the design and development of corrosion-resistant materials for diverse engineering applications. The research outcomes have implications for advancing the utilization of additive manufacturing in producing high-performance titanium components with enhanced durability and reliability in corrosive environments.