Dear Colleagues,

Laser surface engineering (LSE) and laser additive manufacturing (LAM) are transforming the landscape of modern manufacturing. LSE focuses on enhancing and tailoring the surface properties of diverse materials, ranging from metals to polymers and ceramics. Recent advances in ultrafast laser technology have enhanced LSE’s ability to precisely alter surface attributes without introducing undue surface defects. Simultaneously, LAM has emerged as a transformative method in manufacturing, allowing for the layer-by-layer fabrication of bespoke objects from digital 3D models. What sets LAM apart is its adaptability, emphasis on customisation, and ability to work with a variety of materials. This versatility makes it especially effective for producing high-quality, specific components. In sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare, both LSE and LAM prove invaluable, meeting the intersecting demands for tailor-made solutions and durability.

In this Special Issue, our goal is to spotlight the latest advances, address challenges, and present innovative solutions within the LSE and LAM domains. We invite researchers to submit articles that delve into the intricate facets of these technologies, highlighting their current achievements and anticipated future developments.

Highlighted areas of interest for this Special Issue include the following:

Laser Surface Engineering (LSE):

• Exploration and development of advanced coatings and materials using LSE;
• Biomedical applications of LSE, particularly in improving antibacterial properties and biocompatibility of surfaces;
• Techniques using LSE to combat common material challenges like corrosion, oxidation, and wear;
• Strategies for restoring and repairing high-value engineered components using LSE.

Laser Additive Manufacturing (LAM):

• Deep dives into the diverse materials suitable for LAM, such as metals, polymers, and ceramics;
• Optimising the LAM process for enhanced precision, efficiency, and end-product quality;
• Integrating traditional manufacturing techniques with the capabilities of LAM;
• Eco-friendly and efficient approaches in LAM to minimise waste and maximise output.

If you are at the forefront of research in LSE, LAM, or any intersecting domains, this is an ideal platform for your insights. Through this Special Issue, we aim to showcase the important roles of LSE and LAM in shaping the trajectory of advanced manufacturing.

Dr. Chi Wai Chan
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Coatings is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• laser surface engineering
• laser additive manufacturing
• ultrafast laser technology
• advanced coatings and materials
• eco-efficiency in manufacturing