Laser Processing of YSZ Ceramics without Cracking: The Impact of Solvent Selection on Performance

Efficient thermal management during the laser processing of ceramics is critical to prevent surface damage and maintain structural integrity, especially for materials like Yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ), widely used in energy, aerospace, and medical applications. However, the laser processing of YSZ ceramics poses significant challenges related to thermal stress, leading to surface damage and compromised structural performance. This study examines the effects of various cooling media, including water, acetate, and citrate acids, on the surface quality, residual stress, and ablation depth of YSZ ceramics during UV laser processing. Results indicate that acids are the most effective cooling agents, achieving minimal cracking and superior surface quality compared with other conditions. Acid-based cooling reduced the residual stress by up to 84%, enabling shallow and consistent ablation depths. These findings underscore the importance of optimized thermal management to enhance the YSZ processing quality. Potential applications extend to dental ceramics, fuel cells, and aerospace thermal barrier coatings, where enhanced surface integrity is crucial. Future studies should further explore chemical interactions between acid cooling mediums and YSZ to refine laser processing techniques for high-performance applications across industries.