Influence of Laser Glazing on the Characterization of Plasma-Sprayed YSZ Coatings

In this study, laser glazing is used to densify plasma-sprayed YSZ coatings on carbon steel substrates. Melt pool characteristics are assessed for different laser settings and treatment conditions, including substrate preheating. SEM examination of coating surfaces and cross-sections before and after laser treatment shows how microstructure responds to process parameters. It also shows how preheating widens the melt pool, deepens the laser-glazed layer, and reduces the surface density of cracks, thus improving coating quality.