Corrosion evolution of 316L stainless steel after ultrasonic severe surface rolling and laser shock peening processing.

Laser shock peening induced smaller grain size than ultrasonic severe surface rolling for 316L stainless steel. Furthermore, laser shock peening processing facilitated to induce more strain induced α′-martensites. Therefore, the refined grains and α′-martensite enhanced significantly the hardness of 316L stainless steel. Moreover, laser shock peened sample exhibited better corrosion resistance than ultrasonic severe surface rolled one in a medium containing chloride ions. Although α′-martensite would decrease passivation and anti-corrosion ability of 316L stainless steel, the grain refinement promoted the diffusion activity of chromium element, which accelerated surface passivation process. • Laser shock peening promoted to form smaller grains in 316L stainless steel than ultrasonic severe surface rolling. • Laser shock peening induced more strain induced α′-martensites in 316L stainless steel. • Laser shock peening induced protective passive films and enhanced corrosion resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]