Author : Fadhil A.Hashim, Saad B.H.Farid and Ekbal M.S.Salih

Ni/Ti shape memory alloys samples (SMAs) were prepared by powder metallurgy technique . A low power portable spot pulses unit was used for improving surface characteristics and (as an attempt to evaluate the feasibility of using it as an alternative for the conventional , huge , and costly laser equipment) . Its power was only (1/3) of the large unit . Several tests were conducted , such as , corrosion resistance , wear behaviour , Ni-ion release , hardness , and metallography . Significant improvements were observed in surface properties which may have substantial impact on numerous dental applications and probably secure important position in surface engineering of metal and alloys. The corrosion current , Ni-ion release , and volume of wear of the spot pulse Laser treated surface were (4.5 % , 17 %, and 20 %) respectively with respect to the reference sample . An improvement of 481 % in Microhardness of the 532 nm laser treated with respect to the reference . No microcracks were detected in any surface treated sample. The weight loss during wear test was almost zero within the test period.

Keywords: NiTi , Shape memory alloys , Spot pulse Laser , Surface treatment

Article published in International Journal of Current Engineering and Technology, Vol.5, No.6 (Dec-2015)