Electrochemical deposition of metal ions in porous laser sintered inter-metallic and ceramic preforms

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to establish a scientific understanding for electrochemical infiltration of laser sintered (LS) preforms. Design/methodology/approach - Electrochemical deposition techniques were modified to induce infiltration of nickel ions inside porous LS structures with deposition on pore walls. Findings - This novel process is feasible and has the potential to produce fully dense parts. Both conductive and non-conductive preforms can be infiltrated by this method. Research limitations/implications - Removal of trapped fluids and gases inside the porous structure is one of the major challenges in the described electrochemical infiltration process. Practical implications - This work enables low-cost production of structural parts. It expands the application base for additive manufacturing, especially laser sintering technology. Social implications - The novel process carried out in this research is energy efficient when compared to state-of-the-art vacuum-melt infiltration. Originality/value The proposed process is a novel method for facilitating room-temperature infiltration of porous LS preforms.