Utilization of waste materials for the manufacturing of better-quality wear and corrosion-resistant steels

Decarburization of steels during heat treatment is a major problem for wear applications and for thin structural components as it often results in poorer surface hardness, strength, and fatigue performance. Additionally, corrosion is a major problem in many engineering applications. To address these issues, this study introduces a novel low-cost surface treatment that utilizes raw materials obtained from automotive waste. This technique was applied on a high-carbon low-alloy martensitic steel that is commonly used in industrial applications for its hardness, strength, and low production cost. The reduction in decarburization led to improved abrasion performance, while the steel’s corrosion resistance was significantly improved through the formation of a thin ceramic layer across the steel’s surface. This treatment, therefore, not only offers a cost-effective solution to decarburization and corrosion, but it also promotes a more sustainable future.