Surface Modifications in Aerospace Applications

TLDR: In this paper, six contemporary developments are described, which are representative of advances in corrosion protection, fatigue life extension, metal matrix composite (MMC) based new design, and enhanced temperature capabilities by ceramic protective coatings.

Abstract: The long service life, often in harsh environmental conditions, and the stringent requirements of lightweight design make surface modification an essential part of materials technology for aerospace applications. Six contemporary developments are described, which are representative of advances in corrosion protection, fatigue life extension, metal matrix composite (MMC) based new design, and enhanced temperature capabilities by ceramic protective coatings. Coatings and corrosion inhibitors for aluminium skinned aircraft provide survivability, corrosion protection, and cosmetic appearance. Environmental concern on the presently used chromate have led to developments of self-priming topcoats, flexible primers, e.g. based on self-assembling silane molecules, temporary and multifunctional coatings. Fatigue life of titanium parts is shown to be enhanced by laser shock peening introducing compressive surface stresses. Preventing the onset of fatigue cracking from surfaces of titanium alloys and titanium...