6. Conclusion

Laser processes often favorably modify the corrosion resistance of metal surfaces, either by design (surface treatments) or during the implementation of related operations (micromachining, assembly, etc.). The complex physical processes involved, mainly thermal (melting, alloying or deposition), transform the material over highly variable depth ranges (μm-mm), predestining it for significant improvements in behavior to various forms of aqueous corrosion. Other mechanical laser treatments (shock-laser) can also favourably modify electrochemical behaviour by introducing residual compressive stresses. In all cases, the rapid development of lasers is improving their conditions of use (efficiency, cost, speed of treatment), making them increasingly competitive with competing processes, particularly when it comes to improving corrosion resistance.