Bio-Based Surface Engineering of AISI 316L for Durable Electromedical Devices
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55981/jet.853Keywords:
AISI 316L stainless steel, bio-based carburizing, surface hardness, diffusion layer, sustainable surface engineeringAbstract
This study investigates a bio-based pack carburizing treatment for AISI 316L austenitic stainless steel using an environmentally friendly carburizing mixture composed of 70% Alaban wood charcoal and 30% eggshell powder. The treatment was conducted to improve the surface properties of AISI 316L for potential use in non-implant metallic components of electromedical devices. Solid-state pack carburizing was performed at 600 °C, 700 °C, and 800 °C for 3 h. The treated specimens were evaluated in terms of surface carbon content, microstructural changes, diffusion layer thickness, surface hardness, and hardness distribution. The results showed that increasing carburizing temperature enhanced carbon absorption and surface modification. The highest surface carbon content of 0.80% was obtained at 800 °C. At the same temperature, the surface hardness increased to 346 HV, and the maximum diffusion layer thickness reached 16.7 µm. Microstructural observations revealed the gradual formation of a darker and more continuous carbon-enriched modified layer as the carburizing temperature increased. These improvements indicate that the treated surface became more resistant to localized deformation, repeated contact, and light friction, which are important factors for maintaining the durability and functional reliability of metallic parts in electromedical devices. These findings indicate that the Alaban wood charcoal–eggshell powder mixture can act as an effective bio-based carburizing medium for improving the surface durability of AISI 316L stainless steel. Therefore, the proposed treatment not only enhances the surface performance of AISI 316L but also offers a sustainable and low-cost surface engineering approach for non-implant electromedical components exposed to repeated handling, cleaning, and maintenance activities.
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