/ Program 45th Annual Icaleo Laser Materials Macroprocessing TBD Surface Improvement of High Entropy Borides Via Laser Polishing
Description

High entropy borides (HEBs) have recently emerged as promising ultra-high temperature ceramics due to their exceptional hardness, thermal stability, and oxidation resistance, making them attractive for extreme environment applications such as aerospace and nuclear systems. However, their inherently high hardness and brittleness pose significant challenges for achieving low surface roughness through conventional mechanical polishing techniques. In this study, laser polishing is investigated as an advanced surface modification method to improve the surface integrity of HEBs. A pulsed laser system is employed to selectively remelt the surface layer, enabling material redistribution driven by surface tension and rapid solidification. The effects of key process parameters, including laser power, scanning speed, interval distance and number of scans, on surface morphology and roughness are systematically analyzed. Surface characterization is performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and profilometry to evaluate microstructural evolution and roughness reduction. The results demonstrate that laser polishing significantly reduces surface roughness while preserving the bulk properties of the material. Furthermore, optimized processing conditions minimize defects such as microcracks and porosity. This study highlights the potential of laser polishing as an efficient and controllable technique for enhancing the surface quality of high entropy borides, contributing to their broader applicability in advanced engineering systems.

Contributing Authors

  • Myeongho Park
    Kongju National University
  • Jungyu Park
    Kongju National University
  • Seungeun Baek
    Kongju National University
  • Dongkyoung Lee
    Kongju National University
  • Bai Cui
    University of Nebraska-Lincoln
  • Yongfeng Lu
    University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Myeongho Park
Kongju National University
Track: Laser Materials Macroprocessing
Session: TBD
Day of Week: Undetermined
Date/Time:
Location:

Keywords

  • High Entropy Boride
  • Laser Polishing
  • Surface Modification