Optimization of Low-Density Steels by Laser Remelting: Effects on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties

• Grant number: 25/06077-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 18, 2025
• End date: December 17, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Materials and Metallurgical Engineering - Physical Metallurgy
• Principal Investigator: Lucas Barcelos Otani
• Grantee: Marcela Stahlberg Oliveira
• Supervisor: Vicente Amigo Borras
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Exatas e de Tecnologia (CCET). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Universitat Politécnica de Valéncia (UPV), Spain
• Associated to the scholarship: 23/13959-6 - Design and microstructural evaluation of low-density steels with high elasticity modulus, BP.IC

Abstract

This research internship abroad project aims to optimize low-density steels reinforced with TiB2 particles through the application of Laser Surface Remelting (LSR). These steels, classified as Advanced High-Strength Steels (AHSS), offer great potential for structural applications in sectors like the automotive industry, due to their reduced density and favorable mechanical properties. However, the addition of aluminum, responsible for lowering density, significantly decreases the elastic modulus, limiting their broader application. To overcome this limitation, reinforcing the matrix with high-modulus ceramic particles like TiB2 has been proposed.The project will apply LSR treatments to samples previously developed during the undergraduate research in Brazil. LSR is expected to improve the distribution and adhesion of the reinforcing particles, refine the microstructure, and enhance mechanical properties such as hardness and wear resistance. The influence of different laser processing parameters will be investigated through microstructural and mechanical characterization, using Optical Microscopy (OM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), nanoindentation, and Vickers microhardness testing.The activities will be conducted at the Institute of Materials Technology of the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Vicente Amigó Borrás, a renowned expert in laser processing of materials. This project will deepen the student's scientific and technical training in advanced materials characterization and post-processing techniques while fostering international collaboration between UFSCar and UPV. The expected results will contribute to advancing the field of high-performance steels and developing stronger, lighter materials. (AU)