Abstract
The selection process for functionally engineered materials cannot only rely on the physical appearance of the materials, texture, aesthetic and bulk properties but also on the surface characteristics composition especially in the area of applications where surface contact is of high priority. The behaviour of a material is greatly dependent on the surface properties of the material. Functionally engineered materials must be able to satisfactorily perform desired functions completely and effectively, under various conditions in aggressive environments without failing or yielding into a disastrous catastrophe when in service. Savaging, protecting and optimizing scarce natural materials like Titanium from surface defects and deformation like corrosion and wear is a major problem around the world. Titanium alloys are reactive materials and have a high affinity for oxygen, resulting in the formation of protective oxide film spontaneously in the presence of oxygen. However, it can give rise to disruption in the mechanical properties when the system is suffering from starvation of oxygen to form the protective layer. Also, titanium exhibits low wear and abrasion resistance, which can result in reduced service life...
Ph.D. (Mechanical Engineering Science)