In‐Depth Study on Laser Welding of Zirconium Alloy: Unraveling Microstructure, Corrosion Resistance, and Mechanical Properties

In this study, Zr R60702 is laser welded with different laser power parameters. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance of the weld zone (WZ) in different laser‐welded joints are analyzed and compared. The microstructure of WZ mainly consists of α′ martensite and irregularly shaped dendritic α phase structures. As the laser power increases, the α′ martensite content decreases, while the dendritic α‐phase structure increases and becomes progressively finer. The tensile properties of the joints first increase and then decrease, reaching a peak of 357.07 MPa at 1100 W. Similarly, the corrosion resistance is optimal at 1100 W, attributed to the transformation of the microstructure that formed a more stable passive film.