Reliable joining between MgAl₂O₄ and Ti6Al4V by ultrashort pulse laser

MgAl₂O₄ and Ti6Al4V, the greatly suitable materials for industrial application, are rarely explored to realize reliable bonding in current research. In this study, the transparent MgAl₂O₄ and Ti6Al4V were successfully bonded by innovative use of ultrashort pulse laser with ultra-high peak power. The high energy near the laser focus makes MgAl₂O₄ and Ti6Al4V mix and react with each other after absorbing the laser energy, thus realizing the bridge between them. The homogeneous mixing of all phases was observed in the joint and the newly generated Ti₆O phase was identified at the interface. In addition, the effects of laser power and scanning speed on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the joint have been thoroughly clarified. This study creatively used femtosecond laser welding as a new mean to realize ceramic-metal joining, which shows great advantages in superior efficiency and precision compared with other welding methods.