Enhanced surface properties of AISI-304 using bi-step cathodic cage plasma processing

The aim of this work is to investigate the effect of bi-step cathodic cage plasma treatment (BSCCPT) for surface modification of AISI-304. The treated samples are analyzed using micro-hardness test, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and potentiodynamic polarization test. The PN sample shows the occurrence of α' martensite as dominant phase, PNC shows supersaturated S-phase, whereas BSCCPT sample shows Fe2−3N and martensite phase. The BSCCPT sample with post-nitriding shows the growth of thick modified layer with outstanding hardness profile and corrosion resistance. The cathodic cage plasma technique being compatible with existing industrial working units makes present achievement capable for large scale industrial utilization.