Hybrid post-processing of additively manufactured AISI 316 L using DES: Ethaline and Glyceline

Efficient post-processing of additively manufactured metal parts is important to enhance their surface roughness and mechanical properties. This research investigates a novel hybrid post-processing method of AM AISI 316 L stainless steel combining electropolishing and cavitation peening in deep eutectic solvents (DES) including Ethaline and Glyceline. An alternative method that meets the criteria of green technology by the devotion of DES is proposed as an innovative class of environmentally friendly electrolyte. The comparative characteristics of such electrolytes on the performance parameters of post-treated AM AISI 316 L are examined, which involve surface morphology, surface composition, residual stress, micro hardness, potentiodynamic polarization, XRD and viscosity effects of the electrolytes. The results prove that DES can be used as an effective alternative and promising electrolyte medium, while Ethaline provides the best surface integrity characteristics . Ethaline and Glyceline offers intense decrease in surface roughness and improvement of surface mechanical properties compared to as-built samples.