Various magnesium alloys were irradiated with an XeCl excimer laser. The surface of the irradiated areas showed a typical wavy structure caused by the expanding plasma. The resulting roughness was significantly affected by the alloying elements used. Investigations of the microstructure by SEM and TEM revealed supersaturated structures. In the case of AZ 91 an amorphous layer was produced, probably as a result of trapping of oxygen. The refinement and homogenis ation of the microstructure led to improved corrosion resistance.
