Nondestructive measurement of Young's modulus in additively manufactured parts using laser ultrasonics

Additive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a novel fabrication method capable of producing complex geometries. Among metal AM techniques, laser-based powder bed fusion of metals (PBF-LB/M) is particularly effective for creating intricate structures. However, the mechanical properties of AM parts often exhibit anisotropy and spatial variation. In this study, Inconel 718 components were fabricated using PBF-LB/M, and their mechanical properties—specifically, Young’s modulus—were nondestructively evaluated using laser ultrasonics (LU). The results revealed pronounced anisotropy and location-dependent variations in mechanical properties. Because LU enables nondestructive evaluation at the millimeter scale, it is highly effective for investigating the physical characteristics of AM parts. This study demonstrates the potential of LU as a powerful tool for advancing the understanding of AM material behavior and optimizing AM processes.