Investigating deposition process parameters to tailor the residual stress states toward optimization of the nano metallic multilayer post-we

Post-weld treatments can enhance the lifetime of welded structures and thereby contribute to long-lasting use of constructions and an impact toward sustainability in civil engineering. Our project team developed a post-weld treatment, where a nano metallic multilayer (NMM) is applied on the weld bead, heat affected zone (HAZ) and weld proximity. During electrodeposition of the thin film, tensile residual stresses develop, which in turn induce compressive residual stresses in the surface of the steel. The induced compressive residual stress states are expected to govern the improvement of fatigue behaviour in NMM treated specimen. Understanding the development of the residual stress states in the coating, dependent of the process parameters during electrodeposition and layer characteristics, yields toward optimization of the NMM as a post-weld treatment and enables tailoring of such behaviour.