Formation mechanism and microhardness characterization of the ultrasonic hardening layer in cementitious materials

摘要

Abstract Ultrasonic surface treatment (UST) is a novel treatment method to improve the durability of cementitious materials, resulting in the formation of an ultrasonic hardening layer (UHL). The UHL acts as an effective natural coating, offering penetration and erosion protection. However, the formation mechanism and the quantitative characterization of the UHL have not been studied, and the validity of the UST on the top and side surfaces of cementitious materials is still unknown. Therefore, in this study, we investigated and proposed a formation mechanism for the UHL, and defined a transition layer between the UHL and the matrix. We also utilized HV microhardness testing to provide an effective quantitative characterization method for the UHL. Finally, using a set of custom‐designed ultrasonic molds, we confirmed the validity of the UST on the top and side surfaces of the cementitious materials.