Surface Modification and Treatment of Metals

Dear Colleagues,

Surface modification and treatment are the processes of changing the microstructure, chemical composition, and physical state of the matrix surfaces through various physical, chemical, mechanical, or composite methods to enhance the performance of metals. These processing methods mainly include the following categories. Traditionally, mechanical surface treatment, including sandblasting, polishing, rolling, and brushing, removes surface defects through mechanical action, improving surface smoothness and accuracy. Surface deformation strengthening processes shot peening or rolling to make the plastic deformation occur on the metal surface, and then the hardness and wear resistance are improved. Heat treatments include laser surface strengthening (such as laser phase transformation strengthening, laser cladding treatment, etc.), induction heating, flame heating, etc., which change the microstructure of the metal surface through thermal action. Chemical oxidation, chemical plating, bluing, and phosphating usually involve chemical reactions between chemicals and metal surfaces. Electrochemical surface treatments, such as electroplating and anodizing, form a protective layer or change the chemical properties of the metal surfaces. Depending on the application background and performance requirements, these processing methods of the metal parts are used to improve the wear resistance, corrosion resistance, aesthetics, or meet specific functional requirements. The current Special Issue of Metals focuses on the latest developments in surface modification and treatment methods of metals, including the above-mentioned technologies and novel processing methods. Both reviews and research articles are welcome to be included in this Special Issue.

Dr. Qiang Li
Guest Editor

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