Microstructure and high-temperature oxidation resistance of TiN/Ti3Al intermetallic matrix composite coatings on Ti6Al4V alloy surface by laser cladding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xiaowei; Liu, Hongxi; Wang, Chuanqi; Zeng, Weihua; Jiang, Yehua

2010-11-01

A high-temperature oxidation resistant TiN embedded in Ti3Al intermetallic matrix composite coating was fabricated on titanium alloy Ti6Al4V surface by 6kW transverse-flow CO2 laser apparatus. The composition, morphology and microstructure of the laser clad TiN/Ti3Al intermetallic matrix composite coating were characterized by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). In order to evaluate the high-temperature oxidation resistance of the composite coatings and the titanium alloy substrate, isothermal oxidation test was performed in a conventional high-temperature resistance furnace at 600°C and 800°C respectively. The result shows that the laser clad intermetallic composite coating has a rapidly solidified fine microstructure consisting of TiN primary phase (granular-like, flake-like, and dendrites), and uniformly distributed in the Ti3Al matrix. It indicates that a physical and chemical reaction between the Ti powder and AlN powder occurred completely under the laser irradiation. In addition, the microhardness of the TiN/Ti3Al intermetallic matrix composite coating is 844HV0.2, 3.4 times higher than that of the titanium alloy substrate. The high-temperature oxidation resistance test reveals that TiN/Ti3Al intermetallic matrix composite coating results in the better modification of high-temperature oxidation behavior than the titanium substrate. The excellent high-temperature oxidation resistance of the laser cladding layer is attributed to the formation of the reinforced phase TiN and Al2O3, TiO2 hybrid oxide. Therefore, the laser cladding TiN/Ti3Al intermetallic matrix composite coating is anticipated to be a promising oxidation resistance surface modification technique for Ti6Al4V alloy.

Self-Supported Mesostructured Pt-Based Bimetallic Nanospheres Containing an Intermetallic Phase as Ultrastable Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysts.

PubMed

Kim, Ho Young; Cho, Seonghun; Sa, Young Jin; Hwang, Sun-Mi; Park, Gu-Gon; Shin, Tae Joo; Jeong, Hu Young; Yim, Sung-Dae; Joo, Sang Hoon

2016-10-01

Developing highly active and stable cathode catalysts is of pivotal importance for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). While carbon-supported nanostructured Pt-based catalysts have so far been the most active cathode catalysts, their durability and single-cell performance are yet to be improved. Herein, self-supported mesostructured Pt-based bimetallic (Meso-PtM; M = Ni, Fe, Co, Cu) nanospheres containing an intermetallic phase are reported, which can combine the beneficial effects of transition metals (M), an intermetallic phase, a 3D interconnected framework, and a mesoporous structure. Meso-PtM nanospheres show enhanced oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity, compared to Pt black and Pt/C catalysts. Notably, Meso-PtNi containing an intermetallic phase exhibits ultrahigh stability, showing enhanced ORR activity even after 50 000 potential cycles, whereas Pt black and Pt/C undergo dramatic degradation. Importantly, Meso-PtNi with an intermetallic phase also demonstrated superior activity and durability when used in a PEMFC single-cell, with record-high initial mass and specific activities. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Formation of intermetallics at the interface of explosively welded Ni-Al multilayered composites during annealing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogneva, T. S.; Lazurenko, D. V.; Bataev, I. A.; Mali, V. I.; Esikov, M. A.; Bataev, A. A.

2016-04-01

The Ni-Al multilayer composite was fabricated using explosive welding. The zones of mixing of Ni and Al are observed at the composite interfaces after the welding. The composition of these zones is inhomogeneous. Continuous homogeneous intermetallic layers are formed at the interface after heat treatment at 620 °C during 5 h These intermetallic layers consist of NiAl3 and Ni2Al3 phases. The presence of mixed zones significantly accelerates the growth rate of intermetallic phases at the initial stages of heating.

Microstructural Influence on Dynamic Properties of Age Hardenable FeMnAl Alloys

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-04-01

precipitated . In alloys without silicon, β-Mn nucleates within the ferrite . In alloys with silicon, a DO3 intermetallic phase precipitates ...Figure 7 compares the 2.24% Si alloy at 950°C and 1000°C. At 950°C the growth of ferrite and the precipitation of an intermetallic phase is apparent...whereas the alloy remains predominately austenite with 2 vol.% ferrite at 1000°C. The intermetallic phase appears as prism-rods precipitated

High-temperature site preference and atomic short-range ordering characteristics of ternary alloying elements in γ'-Ni3Al intermetallics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eriş, Rasim; Mekhrabov, Amdulla O.; Akdeniz, M. Vedat

2017-10-01

Remarkable high-temperature mechanical properties of nickel-based superalloys are correlated with the arrangement of ternary alloying elements in L12-type-ordered γ‧-Ni3Al intermetallics. In the current study, therefore, high-temperature site occupancy preference and energetic-structural characteristics of atomic short-range ordering (SRO) of ternary alloying X elements (X = Mo, W, Ta, Hf, Re, Ru, Pt or Co) in Ni75Al21.875X3.125 alloy systems have been studied by combining the statistico-thermodynamical theory of ordering and electronic theory of alloys in the pseudopotential approximation. Temperature dependence of site occupancy tendencies of alloying X element atoms has been predicted by calculating partial ordering energies and SRO parameters of Ni-Al, Ni-X and Al-X atomic pairs. It is shown that, all ternary alloying element atoms (except Pt) tend to occupy Al, whereas Pt atoms prefer to substitute for Ni sub-lattice sites of Ni3Al intermetallics. However, in contrast to other X elements, sub-lattice site occupancy characteristics of Re atoms appear to be both temperature- and composition-dependent. Theoretical calculations reveal that site occupancy preference of Re atoms switches from Al to both Ni and Al sites at critical temperatures, Tc, for Re > 2.35 at%. Distribution of Re atoms at both Ni and Al sub-lattice sites above Tc may lead to localised supersaturation of the parent Ni3Al phase and makes possible the formation of topologically close-packed (TCP) phases. The results of the current theoretical and simulation study are consistent with other theoretical and experimental investigations published in the literature.

Phase transition of intermetallic TbPt at high temperature and high pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Fei; Wu, Xiang; Yang, Ke; Qin, Shan

2018-04-01

Here we present synchrotron-based x-ray diffraction experiments combined with diamond anvil cell and laser heating techniques on the intermetallic rare earth compound TbPt (Pnma and Z  =  4) up to 32.5 GPa and ~1800 K. The lattice parameters of TbPt exhibit continuous compression behavior up to 18.2 GPa without any evidence of phase transformation. Pressure-volume data were fitted to a third-order Birch-Murnaghan equation of state with V 0  =  175.5(2) Å3, {{K}{{T0}}}   =  110(5) GPa and K{{T0}}\\prime   =  3.8(7). TbPt exhibits anisotropic compression with β a   >  β b   >  β c and the ratio of axial compressibility is 2.50:1.26:1.00. A new monoclinic phase of TbPt assigned to the Pc or P2/c space group was observed at 32.5 GPa after laser heating at ~1800 K. This new phase is stable at high pressure and presented a quenchable property on decompression to ambient conditions. The pressure-volume relationship is well described by the second-order Birch-Murnaghan equation of state, which yields V 0  =  672(4) Å3, {{K}{{T0}}}   =  123(6) GPa, which is about ~14% more compressible than the orthorhombic TbPt. Our results provide more information on the structure and elastic property view, and thus a better understanding of the physical properties related to magnetic structure in some intermetallic rare earth alloys.

Interfacial reaction of intermetallic compounds of ultrasonic-assisted brazed joints between dissimilar alloys of Ti6Al4V and Al4Cu1Mg.

PubMed

Ma, Zhipeng; Zhao, Weiwei; Yan, Jiuchun; Li, Dacheng

2011-09-01

Ultrasonic-assisted brazing of Al4Cu1Mg and Ti6Al4V using Zn-based filler metal (without and with Si) has been investigated. Before brazing, the Ti6Al4V samples were pre-treated by hot-dip aluminizing and ultrasonic dipping in a molten filler metal bath in order to control the formation of intermetallic compounds between the Ti6Al4V samples and the filler metal. The results show that the TiAl(3) phase was formed in the interface between the Ti6Al4V substrate and the aluminized coating. For the Zn-based filler metal without Si, the Ti6Al4V interfacial area of the brazed joint did not change under the effect of the ultrasonic wave, and only consisted of the TiAl(3) phase. For the Zn-based filler metal with Si, the TiAl(3) phase disappeared and a Ti(7)Al(5)Si(12) phase was formed at the interfacial area of the brazed joints under the effect of the ultrasonic wave. Due to the TiAl(3) phase completely changing to a Ti(7)Al(5)Si(12) phase, the morphology of the intermetallic compounds changed from a block-like shape into a lamellar-like structure. The highest shear strength of 138MPa was obtained from the brazed joint free of the block-like TiAl(3) phase. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Proceedings from the Conference on Critical Issues in the Development of High Temperature Structural Materials Held in Kona, Hawaii on March 7-14, 1993,

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-01-14

composite has not been established and may restrict the use temperature; and/or lifetime. Precipitation of second phase particles in a master alloy (XD...intermetallic alloys with both ordered and disordered precipitate phases including precipitates based upon carbide or nitride phases which involve an...to identify likely pathways or to eliminate others i.e., define a transformation hierarchy. The crystallographic symmetries of the precipitate phase

Microstructure Characterization and Wear-Resistant Properties Evaluation of an Intermetallic Composite in Ni-Mo-Si System.

PubMed

Huang, Boyuan; Song, Chunyan; Liu, Yang; Gui, Yongliang

2017-02-04

Intermetallic compounds have been studied for their potential application as structural wear materials or coatings on engineering steels. In the present work, a newly designed intermetallic composite in a Ni-Mo-Si system was fabricated by arc-melting process with commercially pure metal powders as starting materials. The chemical composition of this intermetallic composite is 45Ni-40Mo-15Si (at %), selected according to the ternary alloy diagram. The microstructure was characterized using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and the wear-resistant properties at room temperature were evaluated under different wear test conditions. Microstructure characterization showed that the composite has a dense and uniform microstructure. XRD results showed that the intermetallic composite is constituted by a binary intermetallic compound NiMo and a ternary Mo₂Ni₃Si metal silicide phase. Wear test results indicated that the intermetallic composite has an excellent wear-resistance at room-temperature, which is attributed to the high hardness and strong atomic bonding of constituent phases NiMo and Mo₂Ni₃Si.

Final Report, Volume 2, The Development of Qualification Standards for Cast Duplex Stainless Steel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Russell, Steven, W.; Lundin, Carl, W.

2005-09-30

The scope of testing cast Duplex Stainless Steel (DSS) required testing to several ASTM specifications, while formulating and conducting industry round robin tests to verify and study the reproducibility of the results. ASTM E562 (Standard Test Method for Determining Volume Fraction by Systematic manual Point Count) and ASTM A923 (Standard Test Methods for Detecting Detrimental Intermetallic Phase in Wrought Duplex Austenitic/Ferritic Stainless Steels) were the specifications utilized in conducting this work. An ASTM E562 industry round robin, ASTM A923 applicability study, ASTM A923 industry round robin, and an ASTM A923 study of the effectiveness of existing foundry solution annealing proceduresmore » for producing cast DSS without intermetallic phases were implemented. In the ASTM E562 study, 5 samples were extracted from various cast austenitic and DSS in order to have varying amounts of ferrite. Each sample was metallographically prepared by UT and sent to each of 8 participants for volume fraction of ferrite measurements. Volume fraction of ferrite was measured using manual point count per ASTM E562. FN was measured from the Feritescope® and converted to volume fraction of ferrite. Results indicate that ASTM E562 is applicable to DSS and the results have excellent lab-to-lab reproducibility. Also, volume fraction of ferrite conversions from the FN measured by the Feritescope® were similar to volume fraction of ferrite measured per ASTM E562. In the ASTM A923 applicability to cast DSS study, 8 different heat treatments were performed on 3 lots of ASTM A890-4A (CD3MN) castings and 1 lot of 2205 wrought DSS. The heat treatments were selected to produce a wide range of cooling rates and hold times in order to study the suitability of ASTM A923 to the response of varying amounts on intermetallic phases [117]. The test parameters were identical to those used to develop ASTM A923 for wrought DSS. Charpy V-notch impact samples were extracted from the castings and wrought DSS and tested per ASTM A923 method B (Charpy impact test). Method A (sodium hydroxide etch test) was performed on one half of a fractured Charpy V-notch impact sample and Method C (ferric chloride corrosion weight loss test) was performed on another half. Test results for the three cast lots and one wrought lot indicate that ASTM A923 is relevant for detecting intermetallic phases in cast DSS. In the ASTM A923 round robin study, five laboratories conducted ASTM A923 Methods A & C on cast DSS material and the lab-to-lab reproducibility of the data was determined. Two groups of samples were sent to the participants. Group 1 samples were tested per ASTM A923 Method A, group 2 samples were tested by ASTM A923 Method C. Testing procedures for this round robin study were identical to those used in the ASTM A923 applicability study. Results from this round robin indicate that there is excellent lab-to-lab reproducibility of ASTM A923 with respect to cast DSS and that ASTM A923 could be expanded to cover both wrought and cast DSS. In the ASTM A923 study of the effectiveness of existing foundry solution annealing procedures for producing cast DSS without intermetallic phases, Ten heats of ASTM A890-4A (CD3MN) in the foundry solution annealed condition were tested per ASTM A923 Methods A, B, & C. Testing of these materials per ASTM A923 was used to determine if the foundry solution anneal procedures were adequate to completely eliminate any intermetallic phases, which may have precipitated during the casting and subsequent heat treatment processes. All heats showed no sign of intermetallic phase per Method A, passed minimum Charpy impact energy requirements per Method B (> 40 ft-lbs @ -40°C (-40°F)), and showed negligible weight loss per Method C (< 10 mdd). These results indicate that the solution annealing procedure used by foundries is adequate to produce a product free from intermetallic phases.« less

Final Report, Volume 2, The Development of Qualification Standards for Cast Duplex Stainless Steel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Russell, Steven, W.; Lundin, Carl, D.

2005-09-30

The scope of testing cast Duplex Stainless Steel (DSS) required testing to several ASTM specifications, while formulating and conducting industry round robin tests to verify and study the reproducibility of the results. ASTM E562 (Standard Test Method for Determining Volume Fraction by Systematic manual Point Count) and ASTM A923 (Standard Test Methods for Detecting Detrimental Intermetallic Phase in Wrought Duplex Austenitic/Ferritic Stainless Steels) were the specifications utilized in conducting this work. An ASTM E562 industry round robin, ASTM A923 applicability study, ASTM A923 industry round robin, and an ASTM A923 study of the effectiveness of existing foundry solution annealing proceduresmore » for producing cast DSS without intermetallic phases were implemented. In the ASTM E562 study, 5 samples were extracted from various cast austenitic and DSS in order to have varying amounts of ferrite. Each sample was metallographically prepared by UT and sent to each of 8 participants for volume fraction of ferrite measurements. Volume fraction of ferrite was measured using manual point count per ASTM E562. FN was measured from the Feritescope{reg_sign} and converted to volume fraction of ferrite. Results indicate that ASTM E562 is applicable to DSS and the results have excellent lab-to-lab reproducibility. Also, volume fraction of ferrite conversions from the FN measured by the Feritescope{reg_sign} were similar to volume fraction of ferrite measured per ASTM E562. In the ASTM A923 applicability to cast DSS study, 8 different heat treatments were performed on 3 lots of ASTM A890-4A (CD3MN) castings and 1 lot of 2205 wrought DSS. The heat treatments were selected to produce a wide range of cooling rates and hold times in order to study the suitability of ASTM A923 to the response of varying amounts on intermetallic phases [117]. The test parameters were identical to those used to develop ASTM A923 for wrought DSS. Charpy V-notch impact samples were extracted from the castings and wrought DSS and tested per ASTM A923 method B (Charpy impact test). Method A (sodium hydroxide etch test) was performed on one half of a fractured Charpy V-notch impact sample and Method C (ferric chloride corrosion weight loss test) was performed on another half. Test results for the three cast lots and one wrought lot indicate that ASTM A923 is relevant for detecting intermetallic phases in cast DSS. In the ASTM A923 round robin study, five laboratories conducted ASTM A923 Methods A & C on cast DSS material and the lab-to-lab reproducibility of the data was determined. Two groups of samples were sent to the participants. Group 1 samples were tested per ASTM A923 Method A, group 2 samples were tested by ASTM A923 Method C. Testing procedures for this round robin study were identical to those used in the ASTM A923 applicability study. Results from this round robin indicate that there is excellent lab-to-lab reproducibility of ASTM A923 with respect to cast DSS and that ASTM A923 could be expanded to cover both wrought and cast DSS. In the ASTM A923 study of the effectiveness of existing foundry solution annealing procedures for producing cast DSS without intermetallic phases, Ten heats of ASTM A890-4A (CD3MN) in the foundry solution annealed condition were tested per ASTM A923 Methods A, B, & C. Testing of these materials per ASTM A923 was used to determine if the foundry solution anneal procedures were adequate to completely eliminate any intermetallic phases, which may have precipitated during the casting and subsequent heat treatment processes. All heats showed no sign of intermetallic phase per Method A, passed minimum Charpy impact energy requirements per Method B (> 40 ft-lbs {at} -40 C (-40 F)), and showed negligible weight loss per Method C (< 10 mdd). These results indicate that the solution annealing procedure used by foundries is adequate to produce a product free from intermetallic phases.« less

Structural transformations and properties of titanium-aluminum composite during heat treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pervukhin, L. B.; Kryukov, D. B.; Krivenkov, A. O.; Chugunov, S. N.

2017-08-01

The link between the parameters of heat treatment of a layered titanium-aluminum composite material obtained by explosive welding with the formation of intermetallic compounds in it has been analyzed. The results of measurements of the microhardness of the composite and the thickness of the interlayer of the intermetallic phase obtained using different regimes of heat treatment have been discussed. Special attention has been paid to estimating the composition of the intermetallic phase in the composite prepared by explosive welding.

EuNi 5 InH 1.5-x (x = 0–1.5): hydrogen induced structural and magnetic transitions

DOE PAGES

Bigun, Inna; Smetana, Volodymyr; Mudryk, Yaroslav; ...

2017-01-01

The new quaternary hydride EuNi 5InH 1.5 has been obtained by hydrogenation of the intermetallic parent EuNi5In under extremely mild conditions, hence, at room temperature and low hydrogen pressure. Hydrogenation at slightly elevated temperatures and pressures allows for the growth of large crystals, which is a rare observation for intermetallic hydrides. EuNi 5InH 1.5 crystallizes in its own structure type ( hP17, P6¯m2, a = 4.9437(6), c = 10.643(1) Å) with a unique arrangement of the intermetallic host. The hydrogen atoms prefer Ni-surrounded positions, occupying {EuNi 3} and {Eu 2Ni 2} tetrahedral voids in the structure. Upon hydrogenation of EuNimore » 5In an anisotropic volume expansion accompanied with a decrease of symmetry is observed. Magnetic measurements reveal antiferromagnetic ordering in the hydride below 4 K and indicate an intermediate +II/+III oxidation state for Eu both in the intermetallic phase and the hydride. X-ray photoemission spectroscopy confirms the existence of the two different oxidation states of Eu. The hydrogenation does not affect the oxidation state of Eu and the type of magnetic ordering, but exerts a strong influence on the transition temperature, crystal structure, mechanical and electrical properties. Crystallographic analysis suggests that Eu(II) and Eu(III) do not order but rather mix homogeneously on crystallographic sites. Electronic structure calculations reveal the metallic character of the hydride with several different types of chemical bonding interactions being present in the compound ranging from the formally ionic Eu–H to covalent Ni–H and delocalized metal–metal. As a result, geometry optimization confirm the thermodynamic instability of the intermetallic host lattice for the hydride and supports a transformation into the parental structure as observed experimentally.« less

Influence of heat-pretreatments on the microstructural and mechanical properties of galfan-coated metal bonds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hordych, Illia; Rodman, Dmytro; Nürnberger, Florian; Schmidt, Hans Christian; Orive, Alejandro Gonzalez; Homberg, Werner; Grundmeier, Guido; Maier, Hans Jürgen

2018-05-01

In the present study, heat-treatment assisted bonding of galfan-coated low-carbon steel sheets was investigated. Steel sheets were bonded by cold rolling subsequently to a heat treatment in the temperature range from 400 °C to 550°C. The reduction ratio during cold rolling was varied in the range from 50% to 80%. Such high reduction ratios were achieved by splitting the bonding process into three stages. By employing heat-treatments, the mechanical properties of the bonds were improved. The heat-pretreatment allowed the formation of brittle intermetallic phases that were easily fractured in the rolling gap during the bonding process. Thus, juvenile non-oxidized surfaces were formed, which facilitated the bonding between the steel layers, and thus increased the bond strength. The intermetallic phases were actively formed at temperatures of 450 °C and above; however increasing temperatures resulted in decreasing mechanical properties due to oxidation processes. The local microstructure was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy in order to characterize the contact zone on the micro level with a focus on the formation of intermetallic phases. The mechanical properties were determined in tensile shear tests. Interestingly, it was found that the galfan coating allowed for bonding at room temperature, and the aluminum fraction was primarily responsible for the enhanced oxide formation during the heat-pretreatment.

Intermetallic layers in temperature controlled Friction Stir Welding of dissimilar Al-Cu-joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marstatt, R.; Krutzlinger, M.; Luderschmid, J.; Constanzi, G.; Mueller, J. F. J.; Haider, F.; Zaeh, M. F.

2018-06-01

Friction Stir Welding (FSW) can be performed to join dissimilar metal combinations like aluminium and copper, which is of high interest in modern production of electrical applications. The amount of intermetallic phases in the weld seam is significantly reduced compared to traditional fusion welding technologies. Because the solidus temperature is typically not reached during FSW, the growth of intermetallic phases is impeded and the intermetallic layer thicknesses typically remains on the scale of a few hundred nanometres. These layers provide a substance-to-substance bond, which is the main joining mechanism. Latest research confirms that the layer formation is most likely driven by the heat input during processing. Hence, the welding temperature is the key to achieve high quality joints. In this study, aluminium and copper sheets were welded in lap joint configuration using temperature-controlled FSW. An advanced in-tool measurement set-up was used to determine precise temperature data. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyse metallurgical aspects (e.g. structure and composition of the intermetallic phases) of the joints. The results show a correlation between the welding temperature and the thickness of the intermetallic layer and its structure. The temperature control significantly improved the correlation compared to previous studies. This leads to an enhanced understanding of the dominating joining mechanisms.

Chemical Frustration. A Design Principle for the Discovery of New Complex Alloy and Intermetallic Phases, Final Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fredrickson, Daniel C

2015-06-23

Final technical report for "Chemical Frustration: A Design Principle for the Discovery of New Complex Alloy and Intermetallic Phases" funded by the Office of Science through the Materials Chemistry Program of the Office of Basic Energy Sciences.

Direct Metal Deposition of Functional Graded Structures in Ti- Al System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shishkovsky, I.; Missemer, F.; Smurov, I.

A direct laser metal deposition (DLMD) technology with co-axial powder injection is used to fabricate a complex functional graded structure (FGS) fabrication. The aim of the study is to demonstrate the possibility to produce intermetallic phases in the Ti-Al powder systems in the course of a single-step DMD process. Besides, relationships between the main laser cladding parameters and the intermetallic phase structures of the built-up objects have been studied. In our research we applied the optical microscopy, X-ray analysis, microhardness measurement and SEM with EDX analysis of the laser-fabricated intermetallics. The discussion of the mechanisms of Ti x Al y (x,y = 1.3) intermetallic transformations in exothermal reactions is also offered in the report.

Structurally ordered Pt–Zn/C series nanoparticles as efficient anode catalysts for formic acid electrooxidation

DOE PAGES

Zhu, Jing; Zheng, Xin; Wang, Jie; ...

2015-09-15

Controlling the size, composition, and structure of bimetallic nanoparticles is of particular interest in the field of electrocatalysts for fuel cells. In the present work, structurally ordered nanoparticles with intermetallic phases of Pt 3Zn and PtZn have been successfully synthesized via an impregnation reduction method, followed by post heat-treatment. The Pt 3Zn and PtZn ordered intermetallic nanoparticles are well dispersed on a carbon support with ultrasmall mean particle sizes of ~5 nm and ~3 nm in diameter, respectively, which are credited to the evaporation of the zinc element at high temperature. These catalysts are less susceptible to CO poisoning relativemore » to Pt/C and exhibited enhanced catalytic activity and stability toward formic acid electrooxidation. The mass activities of the as-prepared catalysts were approximately 2 to 3 times that of commercial Pt at 0.5 V (vs. RHE). As a result, this facile synthetic strategy is scalable for mass production of catalytic materials.« less

The Effect of Oxygen Partial Pressure on Microstructure and Properties of Fe40Al Alloy Sintered under Vacuum

PubMed Central

Siemiaszko, Dariusz; Kowalska, Beata; Jóźwik, Paweł; Kwiatkowska, Monika

2015-01-01

This paper presents the results of studies on the influence of oxygen partial pressure (vacuum level in the chamber) on the properties of FeAl intermetallics. One of the problems in the application of classical methods of prepared Fe-Al intermetallic is the occurrence of oxides. Applying a vacuum during sintering should reduce this effect. In order to analyze the effect of oxygen partial pressure on sample properties, five samples were processed (by a pressure-assisted induction sintering—PAIS method) under the following pressures: 3, 8, 30, 80, and 300 mbar (corresponding to oxygen partial pressures of 0.63, 1.68, 6.3, 16.8, and 63 mbar, respectively). The chemical and phase composition, hardness, density, and microstructure observations indicate that applying a vacuum significantly impacts intermetallic samples. The compact sintered at pressure 3 mbar is characterized by the most homogeneous microstructure, the highest density, high hardness, and nearly homogeneous chemical composition. PMID:28788015

Influence of the Heterogeneous Nucleation Sites on the Kinetics of Intermetallic Phase Formation in Aged Duplex Stainless Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melo, Elis Almeida; Magnabosco, Rodrigo

2017-11-01

The aim of this work is to study the influence of the heterogeneous nucleation site quantity, observed in different ferrite and austenite grain size samples, on the phase transformations that result in intermetallic phases in a UNS S31803 duplex stainless steel (DSS). Solution treatment was conducted for 1, 24, 96, or 192 hours at 1373 K (1100 °C) to obtain different ferrite and austenite grain sizes. After solution treatment, isothermal aging treatments for 5, 8, 10, 20, 30, or 60 minutes at 1123 K (850 °C) were performed to verify the influence of different amounts of heterogeneous nucleation sites in the kinetics of intermetallic phase formation. The sample solution treated for 1 hour, with the highest surface area between matrix phases, was the one that presented, after 60 minutes at 1123 K (850 °C), the smaller volume fraction of ferrite (indicative of greater intermetallic phase formation), higher volume of sigma (that was present in coral-like and compact morphologies), and chi phase. It was not possible to identify which was the first nucleated phase, sigma or chi. It was also observed that the phase formation kinetics is higher for the sample solution treated for 1 hour. It was evidenced that, from a certain moment on, the chi phase begins to be consumed due to the sigma phase formation, and the austenite/ferrite interface presents higher S V for all solution treatment times. It was also observed that intermetallic phases form preferably in austenite-ferrite interfaces, although the higher occupation rate occurs at triple junction ferrite-ferrite-ferrite. It was verified that there was no saturation of nucleation sites in any interface type nor triple junction, and the equilibrium after 1 hour of aging at 1123 K (850 °C) was not achieved. It was then concluded that sigma phase formation is possibly controlled by diffusional processes, without saturation of nucleation sites.

Hydrogen storage and phase transformations in Mg-Pd nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Callini, E.; Pasquini, L.; Rude, L. H.; Nielsen, T. K.; Jensen, T. R.; Bonetti, E.

2010-10-01

Microstructure refinement and synergic coupling among different phases are currently explored strategies to improve the hydrogen storage properties of traditional materials. In this work, we apply a combination of these methods and synthesize Mg-Pd composite nanoparticles by inert gas condensation of Mg vapors followed by vacuum evaporation of Pd clusters. Irreversible formation of the Mg6Pd intermetallic phase takes place upon vacuum annealing, resulting in Mg/Mg6Pd composite nanoparticles. Their hydrogen storage properties are investigated and connected to the undergoing phase transformations by gas-volumetric techniques and in situ synchrotron radiation powder x-ray diffraction. Mg6Pd transforms reversibly into different Mg-Pd intermetallic compounds upon hydrogen absorption, depending on temperature and pressure. In particular, at 573 K and 1 MPa hydrogen pressure, the metal-hydride transition leads to the formation of Mg3Pd and Mg5Pd2 phases. By increasing the pressure to 5 MPa, the Pd-richer MgPd intermetallic is obtained. Upon hydrogen desorption, the Mg6Pd phase is reversibly recovered. These phase transformations result in a specific hydrogen storage capacity associated with Mg-Pd intermetallics, which attain the maximum value of 3.96 wt % for MgPd and influence both the thermodynamics and kinetics of hydrogen sorption in the composite nanoparticles.

Formation of intermetallic phases in AlSi7Fe1 alloy processed under microgravity and forced fluid flow conditions and their influence on the permeability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steinbach, S.; Ratke, L.; Zimmermann, G.; Budenkova, O.

2016-03-01

Ternary Al-6.5wt.%Si-0.93wt.%Fe alloy samples were directionally solidified on-board of the International Space Station ISS in the ESA payload Materials Science Laboratory (MSL) equipped with Low Gradient Furnace (LGF) under both purely diffusive and stimulated convective conditions induced by a rotating magnetic field. Using different analysis techniques the shape and distribution of the intermetallic phase β-Al5SiFe in the dendritic microstructure was investigated, to study the influence of solidification velocity and fluid flow on the size and spatial arrangement of intermetallics. Deep etching as well as 3-dimensional computer tomography measurements characterized the size and the shape of β-Al5SiFe platelets: Diffusive growth results in a rather homogeneous distribution of intermetallic phases, whereas forced flow promotes an increase in the amount and the size of β-Al5SiFe platelets in the centre region of the samples. The β-Al5SiFe intermetallics can form not only simple platelets, but also be curved, branched, crossed, interacting with dendrites and porosity located. This leads to formation of large and complex groups of Fe-rich intermetallics, which reduce the melt flow between dendrites leading to lower permeability of the mushy zone and might significantly decrease feeding ability in castings.

Microstructure and properties of Ti-Al intermetallic/Al2O3 layers produced on Ti6Al2Mo2Cr titanium alloy by PACVD method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sitek, R.; Bolek, T.; Mizera, J.

2018-04-01

The paper presents investigation of microstructure and corrosion resistance of the multi-component surface layers built of intermetallic phases of the Ti-Al system and an outer Al2O3 ceramic sub-layer. The layers were produced on a two phase (α + β) Ti6Al2Mo2Cr titanium alloy using the PACVD method with the participation of trimethylaluminum vapors. The layers are characterized by a high surface hardness and good corrosion, better than that of these materials in the starting state. In order to find the correlation between their structure and properties, the layers were subjected to examinations using optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), surface analysis by XPS, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and analyses of the chemical composition (EDS). The properties examined included: the corrosion resistance and the hydrogen absorptiveness. Moreover growth of the Al2O3 ceramic layer and its influence on the residual stress distribution was simulated using finite element method [FEM]. The results showed that the produced layer has amorphous-nano-crystalline structure, improved corrosion resistance and reduces the permeability of hydrogen as compared with the base material of Ti6Al2Mo2Cr -titanium alloy.

Strain rate dependence in the nanoindentation-induced deformation of Mg-Al intermetallic compounds produced by packed powder diffusion coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Haiwei; Lu, Mingyuan; Zhang, Mingxing; Atrens, Andrej; Huang, Han

2015-09-01

Nanoindentation was performed on τ-Mg32(Al, Zn)49 and β-Mg17Al12 intermetallic coatings and on a AZ91E Mg alloy substrate using loading rates of 0.03 to 30 mNs-1. Pop-in phenomenon was observed during loading in the two intermetallic coatings and in the substrate. Both the magnitude of the pop-ins and the time interval between two consecutive pop-ins increased with increasing loads. The phenomenon was attributed to plastic instability, which is known as the Portevin-Le Châtelier effect. The morphologies of the indent impressions at different strain rates on the t phase, the β phase and the substrate were also investigated using atomic force microscopy. Pile-up occurred in the τ and β phases and was found independent of the strain rate; no obvious pile-up occurred on the AZ91E substrate. The AZ91E substrate exhibited creep rates greater than those of the intermetallic phases, and all of the creep rates increased with the loading rate.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Basak, Sushovan, E-mail: sushovanbasak@gmail.com; Das, Hrishikesh, E-mail: hrishichem@gmail.com; Pal, Tapan Kumar, E-mail: tkpal.ju@gmail.com

In order to meet the demand for lighter and more fuel efficient vehicles, a significant attempt is currently being focused toward the substitution of aluminum for steel in the car body structure. It generates vital challenge with respect to the methods of joining to be used for fabrication. However, the conventional fusion joining has its own difficulty owing to formation of the brittle intermetallic phases. In this present study AA6061-T6 of 2 mm and HIF-GA steel sheet of 1 mm thick are metal inert gas (MIG) brazed with 0.8 mm Al–5Si filler wire under three different heat inputs. The effectmore » of the heat inputs on bead geometry, microstructure and joint properties of MIG brazed Al-steel joints were exclusively studied and characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), electron probe micro analyzer (EPMA) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) assisted X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and selective area diffraction pattern. Finally microstructures were correlated with the performance of the joint. Diffusion induced intermetallic thickness measured by FESEM image and concentration profile agreed well with the numerically calculated one. HRTEM assisted EDS study was used to identify the large size FeAl{sub 3} and small size Fe{sub 2}Al{sub 5} type intermetallic compounds at the interface. The growth of these two phases in A2 (heat input: 182 J mm{sup −1}) is attributed to the slower cooling rate with higher diffusion time (~ 61 s) along the interface in comparison to the same for A1 (heat input: 155 J mm{sup −1}) with faster cooling rate and shorter diffusion time (~ 24 s). The joint efficiency as high as 65% of steel base metal is achieved for A2 which is the optimized parameter in the present study. - Highlights: • AA 6061 and HIF-GA could be successfully joined by MIG brazing. • Intermetallics are exclusively studied and characterized by XRD, FESEM and EPMA. • Intermetallic formation by diffusion is worth considering or not. • HRTEM-EDS, SAD pattern identifies the morphologies and size of intermetallics. • A compromise concerning formation of IMC is necessary.« less

Effect of intermetallic phases on the anodic oxidation and corrosion of 5A06 aluminum alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Song-mei; Li, Ying-dong; Zhang, You; Liu, Jian-hua; Yu, Mei

2015-02-01

Intermetallic phases were found to influence the anodic oxidation and corrosion behavior of 5A06 aluminum alloy. Scattered intermetallic particles were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) after pretreatment. The anodic film was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and its corrosion resistance was analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Tafel polarization in NaCl solution. The results show that the size of Al-Fe-Mg-Mn particles gradually decreases with the iron content. During anodizing, these intermetallic particles are gradually dissolved, leading to the complex porosity in the anodic film beneath the particles. After anodizing, the residual particles are mainly silicon-containing phases, which are embedded in the anodic film. Electrochemical measurements indicate that the porous anodic film layer is easily penetrated, and the barrier plays a dominant role in the overall protection. Meanwhile, self-healing behavior is observed during the long immersion time.

Homogeneous (Cu, Ni)6Sn5 intermetallic compound joints rapidly formed in asymmetrical Ni/Sn/Cu system using ultrasound-induced transient liquid phase soldering process.

PubMed

Li, Z L; Dong, H J; Song, X G; Zhao, H Y; Tian, H; Liu, J H; Feng, J C; Yan, J C

2018-04-01

Homogeneous (Cu, Ni) 6 Sn 5 intermetallic compound (IMC) joints were rapidly formed in asymmetrical Ni/Sn/Cu system by an ultrasound-induced transient liquid phase (TLP) soldering process. In the traditional TLP soldering process, the intermetallic joints formed in Ni/Sn/Cu system consisted of major (Cu, Ni) 6 Sn 5 and minor Cu 3 Sn IMCs, and the grain morphology of (Cu, Ni) 6 Sn 5 IMCs subsequently exhibited fine rounded, needlelike and coarse rounded shapes from the Ni side to the Cu side, which was highly in accordance with the Ni concentration gradient across the joints. However, in the ultrasound-induced TLP soldering process, the intermetallic joints formed in Ni/Sn/Cu system only consisted of the (Cu, Ni) 6 Sn 5 IMCs which exhibited an uniform grain morphology of rounded shape with a remarkably narrowed Ni concentration gradient. The ultrasound-induced homogeneous intermetallic joints exhibited higher shear strength (61.6 MPa) than the traditional heterogeneous intermetallic joints (49.8 MPa). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of Filler Alloy Composition and Process Parameters on the Intermetallic Layer Thickness in Single-Sided Cold Metal Transfer Welding of Aluminum-Steel Blanks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silvayeh, Zahra; Vallant, Rudolf; Sommitsch, Christof; Götzinger, Bruno; Karner, Werner; Hartmann, Matthias

2017-11-01

Hybrid components made of aluminum alloys and high-strength steels are typically used in automotive lightweight applications. Dissimilar joining of these materials is quite challenging; however, it is mandatory in order to produce multimaterial car body structures. Since especially welding of tailored blanks is of utmost interest, single-sided Cold Metal Transfer butt welding of thin sheets of aluminum alloy EN AW 6014 T4 and galvanized dual-phase steel HCT 450 X + ZE 75/75 was experimentally investigated in this study. The influence of different filler alloy compositions and welding process parameters on the thickness of the intermetallic layer, which forms between the weld seam and the steel sheet, was studied. The microstructures of the weld seam and of the intermetallic layer were characterized using conventional optical light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results reveal that increasing the heat input and decreasing the cooling intensity tend to increase the layer thickness. The silicon content of the filler alloy has the strongest influence on the thickness of the intermetallic layer, whereas the magnesium and scandium contents of the filler alloy influence the cracking tendency. The layer thickness is not uniform and shows spatial variations along the bonding interface. The thinnest intermetallic layer (mean thickness < 4 µm) is obtained using the silicon-rich filler Al-3Si-1Mn, but the layer is more than twice as thick when different low-silicon fillers are used.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Śniadecki, Z.; Werwiński, M.; Szajek, A.

Intermetallic YCo{sub 2} compound is a Pauli exchange-enhanced paramagnet. Structural and magnetic properties melt-spun YCo{sub 2} pure and alloyed with Nb or Ti are presented. The samples crystallize in MgCu{sub 2}-type phase with lattice constant a changing from 7.223 Å for YCo{sub 2}, through 7.213 Å for Y{sub 0.9}Nb{sub 0.1}Co{sub 2} to 7.192 Å for Y{sub 0.9}Ti{sub 0.1}Co{sub 2}, where Y atoms are replaced by Nb or Ti atoms. Nanocrystalline phases can be produced by appropriate cooling rates for the solidification process. By the synthesis process free volumes, vacancies, and alloyed atoms are introduced into the YCo{sub 2} intermetallic. Ab-initio calculations have beenmore » performed to investigate the effects of substitution on the spin-split electronic band structure in the ordered YCo{sub 2}. A ferrimagnetic ground state is found in the alloyed systems with substitution on the Y-site which is energetically favorable compared to point defects on Co-sites. However, the experimentally found increased magnetic ordering in alloyed YCo{sub 2} appears to be based on microstructure effects.« less

Properties of TiNi intermetallic compound industrially produced by combustion synthesis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kaieda, Yoshinari

Most TiNi shape memory intermetallic compounds are conventionally produced by the process including high frequency induction vacuum melting and casting. A gravity segregation occurs in a cast TiNi ingot because of the big difference in the specific gravity between Ti and Ni. It is difficult to control accurately the phase transformation temperature of TiNi shape memory intermetallic compound produced by the conventional process, because the martensitic transformation temperature shifts by 10K due to the change in 0.1 % of Ni content. Homogeneous TiNi intermetallic compound is produced by the industrial process including combustion synthesis method, which is a newly developedmore » manufacturing process. In the new process, phase transformation temperatures of TiNi can be controlled accurately by controlling the ratio of Ti and Ni elemental starting powders. The chemical component, the impurities and the phase transformation temperatures of the TiNi products industrially produced by the process are revealed. These properties are vitally important when combustion synthesis method is applied to an industrial mass production process for producing TiNi shape memory intermetallic compounds. TiNi shape memory products are industrially and commercially produced today the industrial process including combustion synthesis. The total production weight in a year is 30 tins in 1994.« less

The role of zinc on the chemistry of complex intermetallic compounds

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xie, Weiwei

2014-01-01

Combining experiments and electronic structure theory provides the framework to design and discover new families of complex intermetallic phases and to understand factors that stabilize both new and known phases. Using solid state synthesis and multiple structural determinations, ferromagnetic β-Mn type Co 8+xZn 12–x was analyzed for their crystal and electronic structures.

Electron-Poor Polar Intermetallics: Complex Structures, Novel Clusters, and Intriguing Bonding with Pronounced Electron Delocalization.

PubMed

Lin, Qisheng; Miller, Gordon J

2018-01-16

Intermetallic compounds represent an extensive pool of candidates for energy related applications stemming from magnetic, electric, optic, caloric, and catalytic properties. The discovery of novel intermetallic compounds can enhance understanding of the chemical principles that govern structural stability and chemical bonding as well as finding new applications. Valence electron-poor polar intermetallics with valence electron concentrations (VECs) between 2.0 and 3.0 e - /atom show a plethora of unprecedented and fascinating structural motifs and bonding features. Therefore, establishing simple structure-bonding-property relationships is especially challenging for this compound class because commonly accepted valence electron counting rules are inappropriate. During our efforts to find quasicrystals and crystalline approximants by valence electron tuning near 2.0 e - /atom, we observed that compositions close to those of quasicrystals are exceptional sources for unprecedented valence electron-poor polar intermetallics, e.g., Ca 4 Au 10 In 3 containing (Au 10 In 3 ) wavy layers, Li 14.7 Mg 36.8 Cu 21.5 Ga 66 adopting a type IV clathrate framework, and Sc 4 Mg x Cu 15-x Ga 7.5 that is incommensurately modulated. In particular, exploratory syntheses of AAu 3 T (A = Ca, Sr, Ba and T = Ge, Sn) phases led to interesting bonding features for Au, such as columns, layers, and lonsdaleite-type tetrahedral frameworks. Overall, the breadth of Au-rich polar intermetallics originates, in part, from significant relativistics effect on the valence electrons of Au, effects which result in greater 6s/5d orbital mixing, a small effective metallic radius, and an enhanced Mulliken electronegativity, all leading to ultimate enhanced binding with nearly all metals including itself. Two other successful strategies to mine electron-poor polar intermetallics include lithiation and "cation-rich" phases. Along these lines, we have studied lithiated Zn-rich compounds in which structural complexity can be realized by small amounts of Li replacing Zn atoms in the parent binary compounds CaZn 2 , CaZn 3 , and CaZn 5 ; their phase formation and bonding schemes can be rationalized by Fermi surface-Brillouin zone interactions between nearly free-electron states. "Cation-rich", electron-poor polar intermetallics have emerged using rare earth metals as the electropositive ("cationic") component together metal/metalloid clusters that mimic the backbones of aromatic hydrocarbon molecules, which give evidence of extensive electronic delocalization and multicenter bonding. Thus, we can identify three distinct, valence electron-poor, polar intermetallic systems that have yielded unprecedented phases adopting novel structures containing complex clusters and intriguing bonding characteristics. In this Account, we summarize our recent specific progress in the developments of novel Au-rich BaAl 4 -type related structures, shown in the "gold-rich grid", lithiation-modulated Ca-Li-Zn phases stabilized by different bonding characteristics, and rare earth-rich polar intermetallics containing unprecedented hydrocarbon-like planar Co-Ge metal clusters and pronounced delocalized multicenter bonding. We will focus mainly on novel structural motifs, bonding analyses, and the role of valence electrons for phase stability.

Microstructures and hydrogen absorption/desorption properties of La-Ni alloys in the composition range of La-77.8--83.2 at.% Ni

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yamamoto, T.; Inui, H.; Yamaguchi, M.

1997-12-01

Alloys based on the intermetallic phase, LaNi{sub 5} have been used as negative electrode materials of rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries because of their fast activation, high storage-capacity, long cycle-life and excellent electrochemical charge/discharge kinetics. Here, microstructure and hydrogen absorption/desorption properties of La-Ni alloys have been investigated as a function of alloy composition in the range of La-77.8 {approximately} 83.2 at.% Ni, which corresponds to compositions between two intermetallic phases, La{sub 2}Ni{sub 7} and LaNi{sub 5}. The intermetallic phase, La{sub 5}Ni{sub 19} of the Ce{sub 5}Co{sub 19}-type is found for the first time to exist as an equilibrium phase atmore » a composition between La{sub 2}Ni{sub 7} and LaNi{sub 5}. This phase is stable at high temperatures around 1,000 C but decomposes into La{sub 2}Ni{sub 7} and LaNi{sub 5} below 900 C. Hydrogen absorption/desorption properties described in terms of pressure-composition isotherms decline with decreasing Ni content (i.e. with increasing volume fraction of intermetallic phases other than LaNi{sub 5}). In particular, the plateau at the equilibrium pressure corresponding to the hydrogen absorption in the LaNi{sub 5} phase is narrowed with decreasing Ni content and additional plateaus with higher equilibrium pressures come into existence. The degradation becomes more pronounced in the presence of La{sub 2}Ni{sub 7} than La{sub 5}Ni{sub 19}. This can be understood in terms of the ratio of the number of LaNi{sub 2} (Laves) unit layers to that of LaNi{sub 5} unit layers in the unit cell of the two intermetallic phases.« less

Response of Cr and Cr-Al coatings on Zircaloy-2 to high temperature steam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Weicheng; Mouche, Peter A.; Heuser, Brent J.

2018-01-01

The oxidation behavior of chromium (Cr) and chromium-aluminum (CrAl) coatings with various compositions deposited on Zircaloy-2 to 700 °C high-temperature steam (HTS) exposure has been investigated. CrAl coatings with higher Al compositions demonstrate lower oxidation weight gain. A layer of γ-alumina developed on the CrAl coatings with Al composition over 43 at%, while Al2O3 and Cr2O3 developed on CrAl coatings with Al composition below 33 at%. Oxidation of Zircaloy-2 substrate was inhibited by the 1um coatings to 20 h HTS exposure. Coating constituent elements diffused into the substrate and formed intermetallic phases with the Zircaloy substrate. Thicker layers of intermetallic phases developed on the coatings with higher Al composition. The intermetallic phases included Fe and Ni, indicating the dissolution of second phase particles (SPPs) during HTS exposure.

A-site ordered quadruple perovskite oxides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Youwen, Long

2016-07-01

The A-site ordered perovskite oxides with chemical formula display many intriguing physical properties due to the introduction of transition metals at both A‧ and B sites. Here, research on the recently discovered intermetallic charge transfer occurring between A‧-site Cu and B-site Fe ions in LaCu3Fe4O12 and its analogues is reviewed, along with work on the magnetoelectric multiferroicity observed in LaMn3Cr4O12 with cubic perovskite structure. The Cu-Fe intermetallic charge transfer leads to a first-order isostructural phase transition accompanied by drastic variations in magnetism and electrical transport properties. The LaMn3Cr4O12 is a novel spin-driven multiferroic system with strong magnetoelectric coupling effects. The compound is the first example of cubic perovskite multiferroics to be found. It opens up a new arena for studying unexpected multiferroic mechanisms. Project supported by the National Basic Research Program of China (Grant No. 2014CB921500), the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (Grant No. XDB07030300), and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 11574378).

Investigation of the interfacial reactions between steel and aluminum coatings for hybrid casting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bobzin, K.; Öte, M.; Wiesner, S.; Gerdt, L.

2018-06-01

Coating of AA7075 was applied by means of cold gas spraying on steel substrates of 22MnB5 and DC04 as an interlayer for high pressure die casting of aluminum/steel hybrid components. The morphology and growth kinetics of intermetallic compounds formed at the interface between coating and steel has been investigated. Furthermore, the effect of alloying elements on the formation of the intermetallic phases was analyzed. The coated samples were heat treated by means of induction heating at the temperature T = 550 °C with different dwell times in the range of 10 s < t < 5 min. The reaction layer growth was examined by means of scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Additionally, the intermetallic compounds were characterized by means of nanoindentation. Intermetallic compounds of AlFe phases occurred as the major constituent in the reaction zone for different combinations of coating and substrates.

A phase width for CaGaSn. Crystal structure of mixed intermetallic Ca{sub 4}Ga{sub 4+x}Sn{sub 4−x} and SmGa{sub x}Sn{sub 3−x}, stability, geometry and electronic structure

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tillard, Monique, E-mail: mtillard@univ-montp2.fr

X-ray single-crystal structure has been established for new compositions in intermetallic systems of tin and gallium. Crystals were successfully obtained in alloys prepared from elements. The structure of SmGaSn{sub 2} (cubic Pm3̄m, a=4.5778(8) Å, Z=1, R1=0.012) is described with atomic disorder at all Sn/Ga positions and the structure of Ca{sub 4}Ga{sub 4.9}Sn{sub 3.1} (hexagonal, P6{sub 3}/mmc, a=4.2233(9), c=17.601(7) Å, Z=1, R1=0.062) raises an interesting question about existence of a composition domain for CaGaSn. Finally, Ca{sub 4}Ga{sub 4.9}Sn{sub 3.1} should be considered as a particular composition of Ca{sub 4}Ga{sub 4+x}Sn{sub 4−x}, a compound assumed to exist in the range x ~more » 0−1. Partial atomic ordering characterizes the Sn/Ga puckered layers of hexagons whose geometries are analyzed and discussed comparatively with analogous arrangements in AlB{sub 2} related hexagonal compounds. The study is supported by rigid band model and DFT calculations performed for different experimental and hypothetic arrangements. - Graphical abstract: A phase width for Ca{sub 4}Ga{sub 4+x}Sn{sub 4−x} belonging to the hexagonal YPtAs structure-type. - Highlights: • Single crystals of mixed tin gallium ternary intermetallics were obtained. • Partial ordering at metal sites and phase width are evidenced for Ca{sub 4}Ga{sub 4+x}Sn{sub 4−x}. • Layer deviation to flatness is studied comparatively with related structures. • Geometry and stability analyses based on DFT calculations are provided.« less

Synthesis of Pt 3Y and Other Early–Late Intermetallic Nanoparticles by Way of a Molten Reducing Agent

DOE PAGES

Kanady, Jacob S.; Leidinger, Peter; Haas, Andreas; ...

2017-03-29

Early–late intermetallic phases have garnered increased attention recently for their catalytic properties. To achieve the high surface areas needed for industrially relevant applications, these phases must be synthesized as nanoparticles in a scalable fashion. Herein, Pt 3Y—targeted as a prototypical example of an early–late intermetallic—has been synthesized as nanoparticles approximately 5–20 nm in diameter via a solution process and characterized by XRD, TEM, EDS, and XPS. The key development is the use of a molten borohydride (MEt 3BH, M = Na, K) as both the reducing agent and reaction medium. Readily available halide precursors of the two metals are used.more » Accordingly, no organic ligands are necessary, as the resulting halide salt byproduct prevents sintering, which further permits dispersion of the nanoscale intermetallic onto a support. The versatility of this approach was validated by the synthesis of other intermetallic phases such as Pt 3Sc, Pt 3Lu, Pt 2Na, and Au 2Y.« less

Synthesis of Pt 3Y and Other Early–Late Intermetallic Nanoparticles by Way of a Molten Reducing Agent

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kanady, Jacob S.; Leidinger, Peter; Haas, Andreas

Early–late intermetallic phases have garnered increased attention recently for their catalytic properties. To achieve the high surface areas needed for industrially relevant applications, these phases must be synthesized as nanoparticles in a scalable fashion. Herein, Pt 3Y—targeted as a prototypical example of an early–late intermetallic—has been synthesized as nanoparticles approximately 5–20 nm in diameter via a solution process and characterized by XRD, TEM, EDS, and XPS. The key development is the use of a molten borohydride (MEt 3BH, M = Na, K) as both the reducing agent and reaction medium. Readily available halide precursors of the two metals are used.more » Accordingly, no organic ligands are necessary, as the resulting halide salt byproduct prevents sintering, which further permits dispersion of the nanoscale intermetallic onto a support. The versatility of this approach was validated by the synthesis of other intermetallic phases such as Pt 3Sc, Pt 3Lu, Pt 2Na, and Au 2Y.« less

Thermodynamic, electronic and magnetic properties of intermetallic compounds through statistical models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cadeville, M. C.; Pierron-Bohnes, V.; Bouzidi, L.; Sanchez, J. M.

1993-01-01

Local and average electronic and magnetic properties of transition metal alloys are strongly correlated to the distribution of atoms on the lattice sites. The ability of some systems to form long range ordered structures at low temperature allows to discuss their properties in term of well identified occupation operators as those related to long range order (LRO) parameters. We show that using theoretical determinations of these LRO parameters through statistical models like the cluster variation method (CVM) developed to simulate the experimental phase diagrams, we are able to reproduce a lot of physical properties. In this paper we focus on two points: (i) a comparison between CVM results and an experimental determination of the LRO parameter by NMR at 59Co in a CoPt3 compound, and (ii) the modelling of the resistivity of ferromagnetic and paramagnetic intermetallic compounds belonging to Co-Pt, Ni-Pt and Fe-Al systems. All experiments were performed on samples in identified thermodynamic states, implying that kinetic effects are thoroughly taken into account.

High-Pressure Synthesis: A New Frontier in the Search for Next-Generation Intermetallic Compounds.

PubMed

Walsh, James P S; Freedman, Danna E

2018-06-19

The application of high pressure adds an additional dimension to chemical phase space, opening up an unexplored expanse bearing tremendous potential for discovery. Our continuing mission is to explore this new frontier, to seek out new intermetallic compounds and new solid-state bonding. Simple binary elemental systems, in particular those composed of pairs of elements that do not form compounds under ambient pressures, can yield novel crystalline phases under compression. Thus, high-pressure synthesis can provide access to solid-state compounds that cannot be formed with traditional thermodynamic methods. An emerging approach for the rapid exploration of composition-pressure-temperature phase space is the use of hand-held high-pressure devices known as diamond anvil cells (DACs). These devices were originally developed by geologists as a way to study minerals under conditions relevant to the earth's interior, but they possess a host of capabilities that make them ideal for high-pressure solid-state synthesis. Of particular importance, they offer the capability for in situ spectroscopic and diffraction measurements, thereby enabling continuous reaction monitoring-a powerful capability for solid-state synthesis. In this Account, we provide an overview of this approach in the context of research we have performed in the pursuit of new intermetallic compounds. We start with a discussion of pressure as a fundamental experimental variable that enables the formation of intermetallic compounds that cannot be isolated under ambient conditions. We then introduce the DAC apparatus and explain how it can be repurposed for use as a synthetic vessel with which to explore this phase space, going to extremes of pressure where no chemist has gone before. The remainder of the Account is devoted to discussions of recent experiments we have performed with this approach that have led to the discovery of novel intermetallic compounds in the Fe-Bi, Cu-Bi, and Ni-Bi systems, with a focus on the cutting-edge methods that made these experiments possible. We review the use of in situ laser heating at high pressure, which led to the discovery of FeBi 2 , the first binary intermetallic compound in the Fe-Bi system. Our work in the Cu-Bi system is described in the context of in situ experiments carried out in the DAC to map its high-pressure phase space, which revealed two intermetallic phases (Cu 11 Bi 7 and CuBi). Finally, we review the discovery of β-NiBi, a novel high-pressure phase in the Ni-Bi system. We hope that this Account will inspire the next generation of solid-state chemists to boldly explore high-pressure phase space.

Nucleation-controlled microstructures and anomalous eutectic formation in undercooled Co-Sn and Ni-Si eutectic melts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Mingjun; Kuribayashi, Kazuhiko

2003-12-01

Co-20.5 at. pct Sn and Ni-21.4 at. pct Si eutectic alloys have been levitated and undercooled in an electromagnetic levitator (EML) and then solidified spontaneously at different undercoolings. The original surface and cross-sectional morphologies of these solidified samples consist of separate eutectic colonies regardless of melt undercooling, indicating that microstructures in the free solidification of the eutectic systems are nucleation controlled. Regular lamellae always grow from the periphery of an independent anomalous eutectic grain in each eutectic colony. This typical morphology shows that the basic unit should be a single eutectic colony, when discussing the solidification behavior. Special emphasis is focused on the anomalous eutectic formation after a significant difference in linear kinetic coefficients is recognized for terminal eutectic phases, in particular when a eutectic reaction contains a nonfaceted disordered solid solution and a faceted ordered intermetallic compound as the terminal eutectic phases. It is this remarkable difference in the linear kinetic coefficients that leads to a pronounced difference in kinetic undercoolings. The sluggish kinetics in the interface atomic attachment of the intermetallic compound originates the occurrence of the decoupled growth of two eutectic phases. Hence, the current eutectic models are modified to incorporate kinetic undercooling, in order to account for the competitive growth behavior of eutectic phases in a single eutectic colony. The critical condition for generating the decoupled growth of eutectic phases is proposed. Further analysis reveals that a dimensionless critical undercooling may be appropriate to show the tendency for the anomalous eutectic-forming ability when considering the difference in linear kinetic coefficients of terminal eutectic phases. This qualitative criterion, albeit crude with several approximations and assumptions, can elucidate most of the published experimental results with the correct order of magnitude. Solidification modes in some eutectic alloys are predicted on the basis of the present criterion. Future work that may result in some probable errors is briefly directed to improve the model.

The μ3 model of acids and bases: extending the Lewis theory to intermetallics.

PubMed

Stacey, Timothy E; Fredrickson, Daniel C

2012-04-02

A central challenge in the design of new metallic materials is the elucidation of the chemical factors underlying the structures of intermetallic compounds. Analogies to molecular bonding phenomena, such as the Zintl concept, have proven very productive in approaching this goal. In this Article, we extend a foundational concept of molecular chemistry to intermetallics: the Lewis theory of acids and bases. The connection is developed through the method of moments, as applied to DFT-calibrated Hückel calculations. We begin by illustrating that the third and fourth moments (μ(3) and μ(4)) of the electronic density of states (DOS) distribution tune the properties of a pseudogap. μ(3) controls the balance of states above and below the DOS minimum, with μ(4) then determining the minimum's depth. In this way, μ(3) predicts an ideal occupancy for the DOS distribution. The μ(3)-ideal electron count is used to forge a link between the reactivity of transition metals toward intermetallic phase formation, and that of Lewis acids and bases toward adduct formation. This is accomplished through a moments-based definition of acidity which classifies systems that are electron-poor relative to the μ(3)-ideal as μ(3)-acidic, and those that are electron-rich as μ(3)-basic. The reaction of μ(3) acids and bases, whether in the formation of a Lewis acid/base adduct or an intermetallic phase, tends to neutralize the μ(3) acidity or basicity of the reactants. This μ(3)-neutralization is traced to the influence of electronegativity differences at heteroatomic contacts on the projected DOS curves of the atoms involved. The role of μ(3)-acid/base interactions in intermetallic phases is demonstrated through the examination of 23 binary phases forming between 3d metals, the stability range of the CsCl type, and structural trends within the Ti-Ni system.

Atomic interaction of the MEAM type for the study of intermetallics in the Al-U alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pascuet, M. I.; Fernández, J. R.

2015-12-01

Interaction for both pure Al and Al-U alloys of the MEAM type are developed. The obtained Al interatomic potential assures its compatibility with the details of the framework presently adopted. The Al-U interaction fits various properties of the Al2U, Al3U and Al4U intermetallics. The potential verifies the stability of the intermetallic structures in a temperature range compatible with that observed in the phase diagram, and also takes into account the greater stability of these structures relative to others that are competitive in energy. The intermetallics are characterized by calculating elastic and thermal properties and point defect parameters. Molecular dynamics simulations show a growth of the Al3U intermetallic in the Al/U interface in agreement with experimental evidence.

Forming metal-intermetallic or metal-ceramic composites by self-propagating high-temperature reactions

DOEpatents

Rawers, James C.; Alman, David E.; Petty, Jr., Arthur V.

1996-01-01

Industrial applications of composites often require that the final product have a complex shape. In this invention intermetallic or ceramic phases are formed from sheets of unreacted elemental metals. The process described in this invention allows the final product shape be formed prior to the formation of the composite. This saves energy and allows formation of shaped articles of metal-intermetallic composites composed of brittle materials that cannot be deformed without breaking.

Dendrite segregation in Ni3Al-based intermetallic single crystals alloyed with Cr, Mo, W, Ti, Co, and Re

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drozdov, A. A.; Povarova, K. B.; Morozov, A. E.; Antonova, A. V.; Bulakhtina, M. A.; Alad'ev, N. A.

2015-07-01

The character of dendrite segregation in Ni3Al-based intermetallic VKNA-type alloy single crystals with a dendritic-cellular structure is studied. Distribution coefficient k d of an alloying element (AE) in the alloy during solidification k d = c d.a.I/ c 0 ( c 0 is the AE content in the alloy (liquid phase composition), c d.a.I is the AE content in primary dendrite arms of the alloy (in the solid phase)) and segregation coefficient k s = c d.a.I/ c i.d ( c i.d is the AE content in the interdendritic space) have been found. A comparative study of the dendrite segregation parameters in VKNA-nype Ni3Al-based intermetallic alloys and the well-known ZhS36-type nickel superalloy shows that the intermetallic alloys satisfy to the rule deduced for two- and three-component nickel-based superalloys: if an introduced AE increases the melting temperature of the basic metal, we have k d > 1 (Co, W, Re); if it decreases the melting temperature, we have k d < 1 (Al, Ti, Cr, Mo). Dendrite segregation coefficients k s are dependent on the proportion of the AE contents in the alloys. In nickel superalloys, the dendrite segregation of aluminum, tungsten, and rhenium is higher than that in the intermetallic alloys. The dendrite segregation coefficients of tungsten and rhenium is higher by a factor of 1.5-2 than that in the VKNA-type intermetallic alloys with a low content of refractory metals. This can be due to the retardation of diffusion of refractory metals in the solid phase of a nickel superalloy highly alloyed with these elements.

Core–shell PdPb@Pd aerogels with multiply-twinned intermetallic nanostructures: facile synthesis with accelerated gelation kinetics and their enhanced electrocatalytic properties

DOE PAGES

Zhu, Chengzhou; Shi, Qiurong; Fu, Shaofang; ...

2018-04-04

Delicately engineering well-defined noble metal aerogels with favorable structural and compositional features is of vital importance for wide applications. Here, we reported a one-pot and facile method for synthesizing core–shell PdPb@Pd hydrogels/aerogels with multiply-twinned grains and an ordered intermetallic phase using sodium hypophosphite as a multifunctional reducing agent. Due to the accelerated gelation kinetics induced by increased reaction temperature and the specific function of sodium hypophosphite, the formation of hydrogels can be completed within 4 h. As a result, owing to their unique porous structure and favorable geometric and electronic effects, the optimized PdPb@Pd aerogels exhibit enhanced electrochemical performance towardsmore » ethylene glycol oxidation with a mass activity of 5.8 times higher than Pd black.« less

Core–shell PdPb@Pd aerogels with multiply-twinned intermetallic nanostructures: facile synthesis with accelerated gelation kinetics and their enhanced electrocatalytic properties

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu, Chengzhou; Shi, Qiurong; Fu, Shaofang

Delicately engineering well-defined noble metal aerogels with favorable structural and compositional features is of vital importance for wide applications. Here, we reported a one-pot and facile method for synthesizing core–shell PdPb@Pd hydrogels/aerogels with multiply-twinned grains and an ordered intermetallic phase using sodium hypophosphite as a multifunctional reducing agent. Due to the accelerated gelation kinetics induced by increased reaction temperature and the specific function of sodium hypophosphite, the formation of hydrogels can be completed within 4 h. As a result, owing to their unique porous structure and favorable geometric and electronic effects, the optimized PdPb@Pd aerogels exhibit enhanced electrochemical performance towardsmore » ethylene glycol oxidation with a mass activity of 5.8 times higher than Pd black.« less

Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution at Ordered Mo 7 Ni 7

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Csernica, Peter M.; McKone, James R.; Mulzer, Catherine R.

2017-04-11

Ni–Mo alloys containing up to ~15 mol % Mo are excellent non-noble electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline aqueous electrolytes. To date, studies have not addressed the details of HER activity of ordered Ni–Mo intermetallic compounds, which can contain a significantly larger fraction of Mo (up to 50 mol %) than can be accessed through high-temperature alloying. Here, we present a straightforward and facile synthesis of three phase-pure electrocatalyst powders using a precipitation–reduction approach: ordered Mo7Ni7, disordered Ni0.92Mo0.08, and pure Ni. The Ni0.92Mo0.08 alloy exhibited a nearly 10-fold higher mass-specific HER activity than either pure Ni ormore » Mo7Ni7, where much of the difference could be attributed to relative surface area. Therefore, we attempted to quantify and account for differences in surface areas using electron microscopy, impedance spectroscopy, and gas adsorption measurements. These data suggest that Ni–Mo alloys and intermetallic compounds exhibit substantial pseudocapacitance at potentials near the onset of hydrogen evolution, which can cause impedance spectroscopy to overestimate the interfacial capacitance, and thus the electrochemically active surface area, of these materials. From these observations, we postulate Mo redox activity as the chemical basis for the observed pseudocapacitance of Ni–Mo composites. Furthermore, using gas adsorption measurements, rather than capacitance, to estimate active surface area, we find that ordered Mo7Ni7 is more intrinsically active than the Ni0.92Mo0.08 alloy, implying that Mo7Ni7 intermetallics with high surface area will also give higher mass-specific activities than alloys with comparable roughness.« less

Effect of Iron Impurity on the Phase Composition, Structure and Properties of Magnesium Alloys Containing Manganese and Aluminum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volkova, E. F.

2017-07-01

Results of a study of the interaction between iron impurity and manganese and aluminum alloying elements during formation of phase composition in alloys of the Mg - Mn, Mg - Al, Mg - Al - Mn, and Mg - Al - Zn - Mn systems are presented. It is proved that this interaction results in introduction of Fe into the intermetallic phase. The phase compositions of model magnesium alloys and commercial alloys MA2-1 and MA5 are studied. It is shown that both manganese and aluminum may bind the iron impurity into phases. Composite Fe-containing intermetallic phases of different compositions influence differently the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloys.

Solid-state transformation of Fe-rich intermetallic phases in Al–5.0Cu–0.6Mn squeeze cast alloy with variable Fe contents during solution heat treatment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lin, Bo; School of Mechanical Engineering, Gui Zhou University, Guiyang 550000; Zhang, Weiwen, E-mail: mewzhang@scut.edu.cn

2015-06-15

The Al–5.0 wt.% Cu–0.6 wt.% Mn alloys with a variable Fe content were prepared by squeeze casting. Optical microscopy (OM), Deep etching technique, scanning electron microscopy(SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to examine the solid-state transformation of Fe-rich intermetallics during the solution heat treatment. The results showed that the Chinese script-like α-Fe, Al{sub 6}(FeMn) and needle-like Al{sub 3}(FeMn) phases transform to a new Cu-rich β-Fe (Al{sub 7}Cu{sub 2}(FeMn)) phase during solution heat treatment. The possible reaction and overall transformation kinetics of the solid-state phase transformation for the Fe-rich intermetallics were investigated. - Graphical abstract: Displaymore » Omitted - Highlights: • The α-Fe, Al{sub 6}(FeMn) and Al{sub 3}(FeMn) phases change to the β-Fe phases. • Possible reactions of Fe phases during solution heat treatment are discussed. • The overall fractional transformation rate follows an Avrami curve.« less

Oxidation sulfidation resistance of Fe-Cr-Ni alloys

DOEpatents

Natesan, Ken; Baxter, David J.

1984-01-01

High temperature resistance of Fe-Cr-Ni alloy compositions to oxidative and/or sulfidative conditions is provided by the incorporation of about 1-8 wt. % of Zr or Nb and results in a two-phase composition having an alloy matrix as the first phase and a fine grained intermetallic composition as the second phase. The presence and location of the intermetallic composition between grains of the matrix provides mechanical strength, enhanced surface scale adhesion, and resistance to corrosive attack between grains of the alloy matrix at temperatures of 500.degree.-1000.degree. C.

Unexpected Ground-State Structure and Mechanical Properties of Ir₂Zr Intermetallic Compound.

PubMed

Zhang, Meiguang; Cao, Rui; Zhao, Meijie; Du, Juan; Cheng, Ke

2018-01-10

Using an unbiased structure searching method, a new orthorhombic Cmmm structure consisting of ZrIr 12 polyhedron building blocks is predicted to be the thermodynamic ground-state of stoichiometric intermetallic Ir₂Zr in Ir-Zr systems. The formation enthalpy of the Cmmm structure is considerably lower than that of the previously synthesized Cu₂Mg-type phase, by ~107 meV/atom, as demonstrated by the calculation of formation enthalpy. Meanwhile, the phonon dispersion calculations further confirmed the dynamical stability of Cmmm phase under ambient conditions. The mechanical properties, including elastic stability, rigidity, and incompressibility, as well as the elastic anisotropy of Cmmm -Ir₂Zr intermetallic, have thus been fully determined. It is found that the predicted Cmmm phase exhibits nearly elastic isotropic and great resistance to shear deformations within the (100) crystal plane. Evidence of atomic bonding related to the structural stability for Ir₂Zr were manifested by calculations of the electronic structures.

Corrosion and protection of heterogeneous cast Al-Si (356) and Al-Si-Cu-Fe (380) alloys by chromate adn cerium inhibitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, Syadwad

In this study, the localized corrosion and conversion coating on cast alloys 356 (Al-7.0Si-0.3Mg) and 380 (Al-8.5Si-3.5Cu-1.6Fe) were characterized. The intermetallic phases presence in the permanent mold cast alloy 356 are primary-Si, Al5FeSi, Al8Si6Mg3Fe and Mg2Si. The die cast alloy 380 is rich in Cu and Fe elements. These alloying elements result in formation of the intermetallic phases Al 5FeSi, Al2Cu and Al(FeCuCr) along with primary-Si. The Cu- and Fe-rich IMPS are cathodic with respect to the matrix phase and strongly govern the corrosion behavior of the two cast alloys in an aggressive environment due to formation of local electrochemical cell in their vicinity. Results have shown that corrosion behavior of permanent mould cast alloy 356 is significantly better than the die cast aluminum alloy 380, primarily due to high content of Cu- and Fe-rich phases such as Al2Cu and Al 5FeSi in the latter. The IMPS also alter the protection mechanism of the cast alloys in the presence of inhibitors in an environment. The presence of chromate in the solution results in reduced cathodic activity on all the phases. Chromate provides some anodic inhibition by increasing pitting potentials and altering corrosion potentials for the phases. Results have shown that performance of CCC was much better on 356 than on 380, primarily due to inhomogeneous and incomplete coating deposition on Cu- and Fe- phases present in alloy 380. XPS and Raman were used to characterize coating deposition on intermetallics. Results show evidence of cyanide complex formation on the intermetallic phases. The presence of this complex is speculated to locally suppress CCC formation. Formation and breakdown of cerium conversion coatings on 356 and 380 was also analyzed. Results showed that deposition of cerium hydroxide started with heavy precipitation on intermetallic particles with the coatings growing outwards onto the matrix. Electrochemical analysis of synthesized intermetallics compounds in the presence of soluble cerium cations showed that of anodic and cathodic activity was not as strongly inhibited as was observed for chromate ions. Overall cerium conversion coating showed good performance on Al-Si (356) ally, but poor performance on Fe- and Cu-rich alloy (380).

Binary Alkali-Metal Silicon Clathrates by Spark Plasma Sintering: Preparation and Characterization

PubMed Central

Veremchuk, Igor; Beekman, Matt; Antonyshyn, Iryna; Schnelle, Walter; Baitinger, Michael; Nolas, George S.; Grin, Yuri

2016-01-01

The binary intermetallic clathrates K8-xSi46 (x = 0.4; 1.2), Rb6.2Si46, Rb11.5Si136 and Cs7.8Si136 were prepared from M4Si4 (M = K, Rb, Cs) precursors by spark-plasma route (SPS) and structurally characterized by Rietveld refinement of PXRD data. The clathrate-II phase Rb11.5Si136 was synthesized for the first time. Partial crystallographic site occupancy of the alkali metals, particularly for the smaller Si20 dodecahedra, was found in all compounds. SPS preparation of Na24Si136 with different SPS current polarities and tooling were performed in order to investigate the role of the electric field on clathrate formation. The electrical and thermal transport properties of K7.6Si46 and K6.8Si46 in the temperature range 4–700 K were investigated. Our findings demonstrate that SPS is a novel tool for the synthesis of intermetallic clathrate phases that are not easily accessible by conventional synthesis techniques. PMID:28773710

Microstructure and tribological properties of TiAg intermetallic compound coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Chun; Chen, Jianmin; Zhou, Jiansong; Zhao, Jierong; Wang, Linqian; Yu, Youjun; Zhou, Huidi

2011-10-01

TiAg intermetallic compound coating has been in situ synthesized successfully on pure Ti substrate by laser cladding using Ag powder as the precursor. It has been found that the prepared coating mainly comprised TiAg and Ti phases. The high resolution transmission electron microscopy results further conform the existence of TiAg intermetallic compound in the prepared coating. The magnified high resolution transmission electron microscopy images shown that the laser cladding coating contains TiAg nanocrystalline with the size of about 4 nm. Tribological properties of the prepared TiAg intermetallic compound coating were systematically evaluated. It was found that the friction coefficient and wear rate was closely related to the normal load and sliding speed, i.e., the friction coefficient of the prepared TiAg intermetallic compound coating decreased with increasing normal load and sliding speed. The wear rate of the TiAg intermetallic compound coating decreased rapidly with increasing sliding speed, while the wear rate increased as the normal load increased.

Massive spalling of intermetallic compounds in solder-substrate reactions due to limited supply of the active element

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, S. C.; Ho, C. E.; Chang, C. W.; Kao, C. R.

2007-04-01

Massive spalling of intermetallic compounds has been reported in the literature for several solder/substrate systems, including SnAgCu soldered on Ni substrate, SnZn on Cu, high-Pb PbSn on Cu, and high-Pb PbSn on Ni. In this work, a unified thermodynamic argument is proposed to explain this rather unusual phenomenon. According to this argument, two necessary conditions must be met. The number one condition is that at least one of the reactive constituents of the solder must be present in a limited amount, and the second condition is that the soldering reaction has to be very sensitive to its concentration. With the growth of intermetallic, more and more atoms of this constituent are extracted out of the solder and incorporated into the intermetallic. As the concentration of this constituent decreases, the original intermetallic at the interface becomes a nonequilibrium phase, and the spalling of the original intermetallic occurs.

Massive spalling of intermetallic compounds in solder-substrate reactions due to limited supply of the active element

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yang, S. C.; Ho, C. E.; Chang, C. W.

2007-04-15

Massive spalling of intermetallic compounds has been reported in the literature for several solder/substrate systems, including SnAgCu soldered on Ni substrate, SnZn on Cu, high-Pb PbSn on Cu, and high-Pb PbSn on Ni. In this work, a unified thermodynamic argument is proposed to explain this rather unusual phenomenon. According to this argument, two necessary conditions must be met. The number one condition is that at least one of the reactive constituents of the solder must be present in a limited amount, and the second condition is that the soldering reaction has to be very sensitive to its concentration. With themore » growth of intermetallic, more and more atoms of this constituent are extracted out of the solder and incorporated into the intermetallic. As the concentration of this constituent decreases, the original intermetallic at the interface becomes a nonequilibrium phase, and the spalling of the original intermetallic occurs.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zou, Yun; Zhang, Lehao; Li, Yang

Limitations of strength and formability are the major obstacles to the industrial application of magnesium alloys. Here, we demonstrate, by producing the duplex phases and fine intermetallic particles in composition-optimized superlight Mg-Li-Al alloys, a unique approach to simultaneously improve the comprehensive mechanical properties (a strength-ductility balance). In conclusion, the phase components and microstructures, including the size, morphology, and distribution of precipitated-intermetallic particles can be optimized by tuning the Li content, which strongly influences the work-hardening behavior and tension-compression yield asymmetry.

Chemical route for formation of intermetallic Zn 4Sb 3 phase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Denoix, A.; Solaiappan, A.; Ayral, R. M.; Rouessac, F.; Tedenac, J. C.

2010-05-01

Synthesis of intermetallic zinc antimonide phases via low temperature solution route was investigated. Trial experiments were carried out under inert atmosphere at 70 °C using metallic Zn, SbCl 3 and NaBH 4 as reactants and tetrahydrofuran (THF), dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) as organic media. Powder X-ray analysis confirmed the nucleation and growth of ZnSb phases in presence of excess Zn. SEM analysis revealed the existence of core-shell structure comprising of Zn core and Sb shell. Such particles get transformed into Zn 4Sb 3 crystalline phases upon thermal treatment at 300 °C/6 h in a silica tube closed under high secondary vacuum.

Gold-promoted structurally ordered intermetallic palladium cobalt nanoparticles for the oxygen reduction reaction.

PubMed

Kuttiyiel, Kurian A; Sasaki, Kotaro; Su, Dong; Wu, Lijun; Zhu, Yimei; Adzic, Radoslav R

2014-11-06

Considerable efforts to make palladium and palladium alloys active catalysts and a possible replacement for platinum have had a marginal success. Here we report on a structurally ordered Au10Pd₄₀Co₅₀ catalyst that exhibits comparable activity to conventional platinum catalysts in both acid and alkaline media. Electron microscopic techniques demonstrate that, at elevated temperatures, palladium cobalt nanoparticles undergo an atomic structural transition from core-shell to a rare intermetallic ordered structure with twin boundaries forming stable {111}, {110} and {100} facets via addition of gold atoms. The superior stability of this catalyst compared with platinum after 10,000 potential cycles in alkaline media is attributed to the atomic structural order of PdCo nanoparticles along with protective effect of clusters of gold atoms on the surface. This strategy of making ordered palladium intermetallic alloy nanoparticles can be used in diverse heterogeneous catalysis where particle size and structural stability matter.

The Solidification Behavior of AA2618 Aluminum Alloy and the Influence of Cooling Rate

PubMed Central

Liu, Yulin; Liu, Ming; Luo, Lei; Wang, Jijie; Liu, Chunzhong

2014-01-01

In AA2618 aluminum alloy, the iron- and nickel-rich intermetallics formed during solidification are of great effect on the mechanical properties of the alloy at both room temperature and elevated temperatures. However, the solidification behavior of the alloy and the formation mechanism of the intermetallics during solidification of the alloy are not clear. This research fills the gap and contributes to understanding the intermetallic of the alloy. The results showed that cooling rate was of great influence on the formation of the intermetallics. Under the condition of slow cooling, the as-cast microstructures of the alloy were complex with many coarse eutectic compounds including Al9FeNi, Al7(CuNi)5, Si, Al2Cu and Al2CuMg. The phase Al9FeNi was the dominant intermetallic compound, which precipitated at the earlier stage of the solidification by eutectic reaction L → α-Al + Al9FeNi. Increasing the cooling rate would suppress the formation of the coarse eutectic intermetallics. Under the condition of near-rapid cooling, the as-cast microstructures of the alloy consisted of metastable intermetallics Al9FeNi and Al2Cu; the equilibrium eutectic compounds were suppressed. This research concluded that intermetallics could be refined to a great extent by near-rapid cooling. PMID:28788281

Improvement of mechanical behaviors of a superlight Mg-Li base alloy by duplex phases and fine precipitates

DOE PAGES

Zou, Yun; Zhang, Lehao; Li, Yang; ...

2017-12-06

Limitations of strength and formability are the major obstacles to the industrial application of magnesium alloys. Here, we demonstrate, by producing the duplex phases and fine intermetallic particles in composition-optimized superlight Mg-Li-Al alloys, a unique approach to simultaneously improve the comprehensive mechanical properties (a strength-ductility balance). In conclusion, the phase components and microstructures, including the size, morphology, and distribution of precipitated-intermetallic particles can be optimized by tuning the Li content, which strongly influences the work-hardening behavior and tension-compression yield asymmetry.

Improved oxidation sulfidation resistance of Fe-Cr-Ni alloys

DOEpatents

Natesan, K.; Baxter, D.J.

1983-07-26

High temperature resistance of Fe-Cr-Ni alloy compositions to oxidative and/or sulfidative conditions is provided by the incorporation of about 1 to 8 wt % of Zr or Nb and results in a two-phase composition having an alloy matrix as the first phase and a fine grained intermetallic composition as the second phase. The presence and location of the intermetallic composition between grains of the matrix provides mechanical strength, enhanced surface scale adhesion, and resistance to corrosive attack between grains of the alloy matrix at temperatures of 500 to 1000/sup 0/C.

Core-Shell PdPb@Pd Aerogels with Multiply-Twinned Intermetallic Nanostructures: Facile Synthesis with Accelerated Gelation Kinetics and Their Enhanced Electrocatalytic Properties

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu, Chengzhou; Shi, Qiurong; Fu, Shaofang

2018-04-04

Delicately engineering the well-defined noble metal aerogels with favorable structural and compositional features is of vital importance for wide applications. Here, we reported one-pot and facile method for synthesizing core-shell PdPb@Pd hydrogels/aerogels with multiply-twinned grains and ordered intermetallic phase using sodium hypophosphite as a multifunctional reducing agent. Due to the accelerated gelation kinetics induced by increased reaction temperature and specific function of sodium hypophosphite, the formation of hydrogels can be completed within 4 hrs, far faster than the previous reports. Owe to their unique porous structure and favorable geometric and electronic effects, the optimized PdPb@Pd aerogels exhibit enhanced electrochemical performancemore » towards ethylene glycol oxidation with a mass activity of 5.8 times higher than Pd black.« less

Synthesis of Au-induced structurally ordered AuPdCo intermetallic core-shell nanoparticles and their use as oxygen reduction catalysts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kuttiyiel, Kurian A.; Sasaki, Kotaro; Adzic, Radoslav R.

Embodiments of the disclosure relate to intermetallic nanoparticles. Embodiments include nanoparticles having an intermetallic core including a first metal and a second metal. The first metal may be palladium and the second metal may be at least one of cobalt, iron, nickel, or a combination thereof. The nanoparticles may further have a shell that includes palladium and gold.

Method of treating intermetallic alloy hydrogenation/oxidation catalysts for improved impurity poisoning resistance, regeneration and increased activity

DOEpatents

Wright, Randy B.

1992-01-01

Alternate, successive high temperature oxidation and reduction treatments, in either order, of intermetallic alloy hydrogenation and intermetallic alloy oxidation catalysts unexpectedly improves the impurity poisoning resistance, regeneration capacity and/or activity of the catalysts. The particular alloy, and the final high temperature treatment given alloy (oxidation or reduction) will be chosen to correspond to the function of the catalyst (oxidation or hydrogenation).

Mechanical Components from Highly Recoverable, Low Apparent Modulus Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Padula, Santo, II (Inventor); Noebe, Ronald D. (Inventor); Stanford, Malcolm K. (Inventor); DellaCorte, Christopher (Inventor)

2015-01-01

A material for use as a mechanical component is formed of a superelastic intermetallic material having a low apparent modulus and a high hardness. The superelastic intermetallic material is conditioned to be dimensionally stable, devoid of any shape memory effect and have a stable superelastic response without irrecoverable deformation while exhibiting strains of at least 3%. The method of conditioning the superelastic intermetallic material is described. Another embodiment relates to lightweight materials known as ordered intermetallics that perform well in sliding wear applications using conventional liquid lubricants and are therefore suitable for resilient, high performance mechanical components such as gears and bearings.

In situ XPS study of methanol reforming on PdGa near-surface intermetallic phases

PubMed Central

Rameshan, Christoph; Stadlmayr, Werner; Penner, Simon; Lorenz, Harald; Mayr, Lukas; Hävecker, Michael; Blume, Raoul; Rocha, Tulio; Teschner, Detre; Knop-Gericke, Axel; Schlögl, Robert; Zemlyanov, Dmitry; Memmel, Norbert; Klötzer, Bernhard

2012-01-01

In situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and low-energy ion scattering were used to study the preparation, (thermo)chemical and catalytic properties of 1:1 PdGa intermetallic near-surface phases. Deposition of several multilayers of Ga metal and subsequent annealing to 503–523 K led to the formation of a multi-layered 1:1 PdGa near-surface state without desorption of excess Ga to the gas phase. In general, the composition of the PdGa model system is much more variable than that of its PdZn counterpart, which results in gradual changes of the near-surface composition with increasing annealing or reaction temperature. In contrast to near-surface PdZn, in methanol steam reforming, no temperature region with pronounced CO2 selectivity was observed, which is due to the inability of purely intermetallic PdGa to efficiently activate water. This allows to pinpoint the water-activating role of the intermetallic/support interface and/or of the oxide support in the related supported PdxGa/Ga2O3 systems, which exhibit high CO2 selectivity in a broad temperature range. In contrast, corresponding experiments starting on the purely bimetallic model surface in oxidative methanol reforming yielded high CO2 selectivity already at low temperatures (∼460 K), which is due to efficient O2 activation on PdGa. In situ detected partial and reversible oxidative Ga segregation on intermetallic PdGa is associated with total oxidation of intermediate C1 oxygenates to CO2. PMID:22875996

Magnetic field controlled floating-zone single crystal growth of intermetallic compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hermann, R.; Gerbeth, G.; Priede, J.

2013-03-01

Radio-frequency (RF) floating zone single crystal growth is an important technique for the preparation of single bulk crystals. The advantage of the floating-zone method is the crucible-free growth of single crystals of reactive materials with high melting points. The strong heat diffusion on the surface, as well as the melt convection in the molten zone due to induction heating, often leads to an undesired solid-liquid interface geometry with a concave (towards the solid phase) outer rim. These concave parts aggravate the single crystal growth over the full cross-section. A two-phase stirrer was developed at IFW Dresden in order to avoid the problems connected with these concave parts. It acts as a magnetic field pump and changes the typical double vortex structure to a single roll structure, thus pushing hot melt into the regions where the concave parts may arise. The current in the secondary coil is induced by the primary coil, and the capacitor and the resistance of the secondary circuit are adjusted to get a stable 90 degree phase-shift between the coil currents. Single crystal growth of industrial relevant RuAl and TiAl intermetallic compounds was performed based on the material parameters and using the adjusted two-phase stirrer. Very recently, the magnetic system was applied to the crystal growth of biocompatible TiNb alloys and antiferromagnetic Heusler MnSi compounds.

Study of the properties and the choice of alloys for bladed disks (blisks) and a method for their joining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Povarova, K. B.; Valitov, V. A.; Obsepyan, S. V.; Drozdov, A. A.; Bazyleva, O. A.; Valitova, E. V.

2014-09-01

The choice of materials for the bladed disks (blisks) that are intended for next-generation aviation gas turbine engines is grounded. As blade materials, single crystals of light heterophase γ' + γ VKNA-type alloys based on the γ'(Ni3Al) intermetallic compound with an ordered structure are proposed. The choice of novel deformable EP975-type nickel superalloys, which are intended for operation at 800-850°C, as the disk material is grounded. It is shown that the most effective method for forming one-piece joints of an Ni3Al-based alloy and a high-alloy EP975-type nickel superalloy is the new process of solid-phase pressure welding under conditions of high-temperature superplasticity. Solid-phase joints are formed for heterophase Ni3Al-based alloy single crystals and deformable EK61 and EP975 nickel alloys. The gradient structures in the zone of the solid-phase joints that form under the conditions of low- and high-temperature superplasticity at homologous temperatures of ˜0.6 T m and 0.9 T m are studied. The character and direction of the diffusion processes at the joint of an intermetallic alloy single crystal and a deformable polycrystalline alloy are determined.

Interfacial Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Friction Stir Welded Joints of Commercially Pure Aluminum and 304 Stainless Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murugan, Balamagendiravarman; Thirunavukarasu, Gopinath; Kundu, Sukumar; Kailas, Satish V.; Chatterjee, Subrata

2018-05-01

In the present investigation, friction stir welding of commercially pure aluminum and 304 stainless steel was carried out at varying tool rotational speeds from 200 to 1000 rpm in steps of 200 rpm using 60 mm/min traverse speed at 2 (degree) tool tilt angle. Microstructural characterization of the interfacial zone was carried out using optical microscope and scanning electron microscope. Energy-dispersive spectroscopy indicated the presence of FeAl3 intermetallic phase. Thickness of the intermetallic layer increased with the increase in tool rotational speed. X-ray diffraction studies indicated the formation of intermetallic phases like FeAl2, Fe4Al13, Fe2Al5, and FeAl3. A maximum tensile strength of 90% that of aluminum along with 4.5% elongation was achieved with the welded sample at tool rotational speed of 400 rpm. The stir zone showed higher hardness as compared to base metals, heat affected zone, and thermo-mechanically affected zone due to the presence of intermetallics. The maximum hardness value at the stir zone was achieved at 1000 rpm tool rotational speed.

Thermo-stoichiometric behavior of aluminum-nickel nanoheater particles fabricated by galvanic replacement reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buckley, Jacqueline L.

2010-03-01

Al-Ni reactive nano-structures are gaining interest for various applications in aerospace, nano-manufacturing, and biomedical fields. However, nano-material behavior can vary from macro-scale. There has been no systematic study of Al-Ni exothermic reaction and intermetallic formation for nano-scale reactants. Therefore, this study aims to investigate deviations from the established Al-Ni phase diagram, with the premise that the intermetallic formation temperatures are expected to be lower for nano-reactants due to higher surface energy. Additionally, it is important to gain better understanding and control of the galvanic replacement reaction (GRR) fabrication method, which, in terms of producing Al-Ni bi-metallic nanoparticles, is a completely novel scheme. With an adapted phase diagram, intermetallic product and heat output of nanoparticles from any given stage of GRR process can be predicted. Al-Ni nanoparticles having ignitable Al-Ni ratios were fabricated via GRR method. Effects of composition and temperature on intermetallic formation were studied by in-situ XRD analysis. Effects of environment and heating rate on the Al-Ni exothermic reaction were also investigated.

Intermetallic M--Sn.sub.5 (M=Fe, Cu, Co, Ni) compound and a method of synthesis thereof

DOEpatents

Wang, Xiao-Liang; Han, Weiqiang

2017-09-05

Novel intermetallic materials are provided that are composed of tin and one or more additional metal(s) having a formula M.sub.(1-x)-Sn.sub.5, where -0.1.ltoreq.x.ltoreq.0.5, with 0.01.ltoreq.x.ltoreq.0.4 being more preferred and the second metallic element (M) is selected from iron (Fe), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), and a combination of two or more of those metals. Due to low concentration of the second metallic element, the intermetallic compound affords an enhanced capacity applicable for electrochemical cells and may serve as an intermediate phase between Sn and MSn.sub.2. A method of synthesizing these intermetallic materials is also disclosed.

Advanced ordered intermetallic alloy deployment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, C.T.; Maziasz, P.J.; Easton, D.S.

1997-04-01

The need for high-strength, high-temperature, and light-weight materials for structural applications has generated a great deal of interest in ordered intermetallic alloys, particularly in {gamma}-based titanium aluminides {gamma}-based TiAl alloys offer an attractive mix of low density ({approximately}4g/cm{sup 3}), good creep resistance, and high-temperature strength and oxidation resistance. For rotating or high-speed components. TiAl also has a high damping coefficient which minimizes vibrations and noise. These alloys generally contain two phases. {alpha}{sub 2} (DO{sub 19} structure) and {gamma} (L 1{sub 0}), at temperatures below 1120{degrees}C, the euticoid temperature. The mechanical properties of TiAl-based alloys are sensitive to both alloy compositionsmore » and microstructure. Depending on heat-treatment and thermomechanical processing, microstructures with near equiaxed {gamma}, a duplex structure (a mix of the {gamma} and {alpha}{sub 2} phases) can be developed in TiAl alloys containing 45 to 50 at. % Al. The major concern for structural use of TiAl alloys is their low ductility and poor fracture resistance at ambient temperatures. The purpose of this project is to improve the fracture toughness of TiAl-based alloys by controlling alloy composition, microstructure and thermomechanical treatment. This work is expected to lead to the development of TiAl alloys with significantly improved fracture toughness and tensile ductility for structural use.« less

Method of treating intermetallic alloy hydrogenation/oxidation catalysts for improved impurity poisoning resistance, regeneration and increased activity

DOEpatents

Wright, R.B.

1992-01-14

Alternate, successive high temperature oxidation and reduction treatments, in either order, of intermetallic alloy hydrogenation and intermetallic alloy oxidation catalysts unexpectedly improves the impurity poisoning resistance, regeneration capacity and/or activity of the catalysts. The particular alloy, and the final high temperature treatment given alloy (oxidation or reduction) will be chosen to correspond to the function of the catalyst (oxidation or hydrogenation). 23 figs.

Formation of the Fe-Containing Intermetallic Compounds during Solidification of Al-5Mg-2Si-0.7Mn-1.1Fe Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Que, Zhongping; Wang, Yun; Fan, Zhongyun

2018-06-01

Iron (Fe) is the most common and the most detrimental impurity element in Al alloys due to the formation of Fe-containing intermetallic compounds (IMCs), which are harmful to mechanical performance of the Al-alloy components. In this paper we investigate the formation of Fe-containing IMCs during solidification of an Al-5Mg-2Si-0.7Mn-1.1Fe alloy under varied solidification conditions. We found that the primary Fe-containing intermetallic compound (P-IMC) in the alloy is the BCC α-Al15(Fe,Mn)3Si2 phase and has a polyhedral morphology with {1 1 0} surface termination. The formation of the P-IMCs can be easily suppressed by increasing the melt superheat and/or cooling rate, suggesting that the nucleation of the α-Al15(Fe,Mn)3Si2 phase is difficult. In addition, we found that the IMCs with a Chinese script morphology is initiated on the {1 0 0} surfaces of the P-IMCs during the binary eutectic reaction with the α-Al phase. Both the binary and ternary eutectic IMCs are also identified as the BCC α-Al15(Fe,Mn)3Si2 phase. Furthermore, we found that the Fe content increases and the Mn content decreases in the Fe-containing intermetallic compounds with the decrease of the formation temperature, although the sum of the Fe and Mn contents in all of the IMCs is constant.

Structure Defect Property Relationships in Binary Intermetallics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Medasani, Bharat; Ding, Hong; Chen, Wei; Persson, Kristin; Canning, Andrew; Haranczyk, Maciej; Asta, Mark

2015-03-01

Ordered intermetallics are light weight materials with technologically useful high temperature properties such as creep resistance. Knowledge of constitutional and thermal defects is required to understand these properties. Vacancies and antisites are the dominant defects in the intermetallics and their concentrations and formation enthalpies could be computed by using first principles density functional theory and thermodynamic formalisms such as dilute solution method. Previously many properties of the intermetallics such as melting temperatures and formation enthalpies were statistically analyzed for large number of intermetallics using structure maps and data mining approaches. We undertook a similar exercise to establish the dependence of the defect properties in binary intermetallics on the underlying structural and chemical composition. For more than 200 binary intermetallics comprising of AB, AB2 and AB3 structures, we computed the concentrations and formation enthalpies of vacancies and antisites in a small range of stoichiometries deviating from ideal stoichiometry. The calculated defect properties were datamined to gain predictive capabilities of defect properties as well as to classify the intermetallics for their suitability in high-T applications. Supported by the US DOE under Contract No. DEAC02-05CH11231 under the Materials Project Center grant (Award No. EDCBEE).

Gold–promoted structurally ordered intermetallic palladium cobalt nanoparticles for the oxygen reduction reaction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kuttiyiel, Kurian A.; Sasaki, Kotaro; Su, Dong

2014-11-06

Considerable efforts to make palladium and palladium alloys active catalysts and a possible replacement for platinum have had a marginal success. Here, we report on a structurally ordered Au₁₀Pd₄₀Co₅₀ catalyst that exhibits comparable activity to conventional platinum catalysts in both acid and alkaline media. Electron microscopic techniques demonstrate that via addition of gold atoms PdCo nanoparticles undergo at elevated temperatures an atomic structural transition from core-shell to a rare intermetallic ordered structure with twin boundaries forming stable {111}, {110} and {100} facets. The superior stability of this catalyst compared to platinum after 10,000 potential cycles in alkaline media is attributedmore » to the atomic structural order of PdCo nanoparticles along with protective effect of clusters of gold atoms on the surface. This strategy of making ordered palladium intermetallic alloy nanoparticles can be used in diverse heterogeneous catalysis where particle size and structural stability matters.« less

Ultrafast and Highly Reversible Sodium Storage in Zinc-Antimony Intermetallic Nanomaterials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nie, Anmin; Gan, Li-yong; Cheng, Yingchun

2015-12-17

The progress on sodium-ion battery technology faces many grand challenges, one of which is the considerably lower rate of sodium insertion/deinsertion in electrode materials due to the larger size of sodium (Na) ions and complicated redox reactions compared to the lithium-ion systems. Here, it is demonstrated that sodium ions can be reversibly stored in Zn-Sb intermetallic nanowires at speeds that can exceed 295 nm s -1. Remarkably, these values are one to three orders of magnitude higher than the sodiation rate of other nanowires electrochemically tested with in situ transmission electron micro­scopy. It is found that the nanowires display aboutmore » 161% volume expansion after the first sodiation and then cycle with an 83% reversible volume expansion. Despite their massive expansion, the nanowires can be cycled without any cracking or facture during the ultrafast sodiation/desodiation process. Additionally, most of the phases involved in the sodiation/desodiation process possess high electrical conductivity. More specifically, the NaZnSb exhibits a layered structure, which provides channels for fast Na + diffusion. This observation indicates that Zn-Sb intermetallic nanomaterials offer great promise as high rate and good cycling stability anodic materials for the next generation of sodium-ion batteries.« less

Magnetocaloric effect and other low-temperature properties of Pr2Pt2 In

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mboukam, J. J.; Sondezi, B. M.; Tchokonté, M. B. Tchoula; Bashir, A. K. H.; Strydom, A. M.; Britz, D.; Kaczorowski, D.

2018-05-01

We report on X-ray diffraction, electrical transport, heat capacity and magnetocaloric effect measurements of a polycrystalline sample of Pr2Pt2 In . The compound forms in the tetragonal Mo2FeB2 type structure and orders ferromagnetically at TC=9 K. In the ordered state, its thermodynamic and electrical transport properties are dominated by magnon contributions with an energy gap of about 8 K in the spin-wave spectrum. The magnitude of magnetocaloric effect is similar to the values reported for most rare-earth based intermetallics. Characteristic behavior of the isothermal magnetic entropy change maximum points to a second-order character of the ferromagnetic phase transition in the compound studied.

First-principles study of intermetallic phase stability in the ternary Ti-Al-Nb alloy system

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Asta, M.; Ormeci, A.; Wills, J.M.

The stability of bcc-based phases in the Ti-Al-Nb alloy system has been studied from first-principles using a combination of ab-initio total energy and cluster variation method (CVM) calculations. Total energies have been computed for 18 binary and ternary bcc superstructures in order to determine low temperature ordering tendencies. From the results of these calculations a set of effective cluster interaction parameters have been derived. These interaction parameters are required input for CVM computations of alloy thermodynamic properties. The CVM has been used to study the effect of composition on finite-temperature ordering tendencies and site preferences for bcc-based phases. Strong orderingmore » tendencies are observed for binary Nb-Al and Ti-Al bcc phases as well as for ternary alloys with compositions near Ti{sub 2}AlNb. For selected superstructures we have also analyzed structural stabilities with respect to tetragonal distortions which transform the bcc into an fcc lattice. Instabilities with respect to such distortions are found to exist for binary but not ternary bcc compounds.« less

Preparation of Ti3Al intermetallic compound by spark plasma sintering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ito, Tsutomu; Fukui, Takahiro

2018-04-01

Sintered compacts of single phase Ti3Al intermetallic compound, which have excellent potential as refractory materials, were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). A raw powder of Ti3Al intermetallic compound with an average powder diameter of 176 ± 56 μm was used in this study; this large powder diameter is disadvantageous for sintering because of the small surface area. The samples were prepared at sintering temperatures (Ts) of 1088, 1203, and 1323 K, sintering stresses (σs) of 16, 32, and 48 MPa, and a sintering time (ts) of 10 min. The calculated relative densities based on the apparent density of Ti3Al provided by the supplier were approximately 100% under all sintering conditions. From the experimental results, it was evident that SPS is an effective technique for dense sintering of Ti3Al intermetallic compounds in a short time interval. In this report, the sintering characteristics of Ti3Al intermetallic compacts are briefly discussed and compared with those of pure titanium compacts.

The growth of intermetallic compounds at Sn-Ag-Cu solder/Cu and Sn-Ag-Cu solder/Ni interfaces and the associated evolution of the solder microstructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zribi, A.; Clark, A.; Zavalij, L.; Borgesen, P.; Cotts, E. J.

2001-09-01

The evolution of intermetallics at and near SnAgCu/Cu and SnAgCu/Ni interfaces was examined, and compared to the behavior, near PbSn/metal and Sn/metal interfaces. Two different solder compositions were considered, Sn93.6Ag4.7Cu1.7 and Sn95.5Ag3.5Cu1.0 (Sn91.8Ag5.1 Cu3.1 and Sn94.35Ag3.8Cu1.85 in atomic percent). In both cases, phase formation and growth at interfaces with Cu were very similar to those commonly observed for eutectic SnPb solder. However, the evolution of intermetallics at SnAgCu/Ni interfaces proved much more complex. The presence of the Cu in the solder dramatically altered the phase selectivity at the solder/Ni interface and affected the growth kinetics of intermetallics. As long as sufficient Cu was available, it would combine with Ni and Sn to form (Cu,Ni)6)Sn5 which grew instead of the Ni3Sn4 usually observed in PbSn/Ni and Sn/Ni diffusion couples. This growing phase would, however, eventually consume essentially all of the available Cu in the solder. Because the mechanical properties of Sn-Ag-Cu alloys, depend upon the Cu content, this consumption can be expected to alter the mechanical properties of these Pb-free solderjoints. After depletion of the Cu from the solder, further annealing then gradually transformed the (Cu,Ni)6Sn5 phase into a (Ni,Cu)3Sn4 phase.

A U-bearing composite waste form for electrochemical processing wastes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, X.; Ebert, W. L.; Indacochea, J. E.

2018-04-01

Metallic/ceramic composite waste forms are being developed to immobilize combined metallic and oxide waste streams generated during electrochemical recycling of used nuclear fuel. Composites were made for corrosion testing by reacting HT9 steel to represent fuel cladding, Zr and Mo to simulate metallic fuel waste, and a mixture of ZrO2, Nd2O3, and UO2 to represent oxide wastes. More than half of the added UO2 was reduced to metal and formed Fe-Zr-U intermetallics and most of the remaining UO2 and all of the Nd2O3 reacted to form zirconates. Fe-Cr-Mo intermetallics were also formed. Microstructure characterization of the intermetallic and ceramic phases that were generated and tests conducted to evaluate their corrosion behaviors indicate composite waste forms can accommodate both metallic and oxidized waste streams in durable host phases.

On the shock response of cubic metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bourne, N. K.; Gray, G. T.; Millett, J. C. F.

2009-11-01

The response of four cubic metals to shock loading is reviewed in order to understand the effects of microstructure on continuum response. Experiments are described that link defect generation and storage mechanisms at the mesoscale to observations in the bulk. Four materials were reviewed; these were fcc nickel, the ordered fcc intermetallic Ni3Al, the bcc metal tantalum, and two alloys based on the intermetallic phase TiAl; Ti-46.5Al-2Cr-2Nb and Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb-1B. The experiments described are in two groups: first, equation of state and shear strength measurements using Manganin stress gauges and, second, postshock microstructural examinations and measurement of changes in mechanical properties. The behaviors described are linked through the description of time dependent plasticity mechanisms to the final states achieved. Recovered targets displayed dislocation microstructures illustrating processes active during the shock-loading process. Reloading of previously shock-prestrained samples illustrated shock strengthening for the fcc metals Ni and Ni3Al while showing no such effect for bcc Ta and for the intermetallic TiAl. This difference in effective shock hardening has been related, on the one hand, to the fact that bcc metals have fewer available slip systems that can operate than fcc crystals and to the observation that the lower symmetry materials (Ta and TiAl) both possess high Peierls stress and thus have higher resistances to defect motion in the lattice under shock-loading conditions. These behaviors, compared between these four materials, illustrate the role of defect generation, transport, storage, and interaction in determining the response of materials to shock prestraining.

Radiation effects on interface reactions of U/Fe, U/(Fe+Cr), and U/(Fe+Cr+Ni)

DOE PAGES

Shao, Lin; Chen, Di; Wei, Chaochen; ...

2014-10-01

We study the effects of radiation damage on interdiffusion and intermetallic phase formation at the interfaces of U/Fe, U/(Fe + Cr), and U/(Fe + Cr + Ni) diffusion couples. Magnetron sputtering is used to deposit thin films of Fe, Fe + Cr, or Fe + Cr + Ni on U substrates to form the diffusion couples. One set of samples are thermally annealed under high vacuum at 450 C or 550 C for one hour. A second set of samples are annealed identically but with concurrent 3.5 MeV Fe++ ion irradiation. The Fe++ ion penetration depth is sufficient to reachmore » the original interfaces. Rutherford backscattering spectrometry analysis with high fidelity spectral simulations is used to obtain interdiffusion profiles, which are used to examine differences in U diffusion and intermetallic phase formation at the buried interfaces. For all three diffusion systems, Fe++ ion irradiations enhance U diffusion. Furthermore, the irradiations accelerate the formation of intermetallic phases. In U/Fe couples, for example, the unirradiated samples show typical interdiffusion governed by Fick’s laws, while the irradiated ones show step-like profiles influenced by Gibbs phase rules.« less

Magnetic ordering in intermetallic La1-xTbxMn2Si2 compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korotin, Dm. M.; Streltsov, S. V.; Gerasimov, E. G.; Mushnikov, N. V.; Zhidkov, I. S.; Kukharenko, A. I.; Finkelstein, L. D.; Cholakh, S. O.; Kurmaev, E. Z.

2018-05-01

The magnetic structures and magnetic phase transitions in intermetallic layered La1-xTbxMn2Si2 compounds (the ThCr2Si2-type structure) are investigated using the first-principles method and XPS measurements. The experimentally observed transition from ferromagnetic (FM) to antiferromagnetic (AFM) ordering of Mn sublattice with increase of terbium concentration is successfully reproduced in calculations for collinear magnetic moments model. The FM →AFM change of interplane magnetic ordering at small x is irrelevant to the number of f-electrons of the rare-earth ion. In contrast it was shown to be related to the Mn-Mn in-plane distance. Calculated Tb critical concentration for this transition x ≈ 0.14 corresponds to the Mn-Mn in-plane distance 0.289 nm, very close to the experimentally observed transition distance 0.287 nm. The crystal cell compression due to substitution increases an overlap between Mndxz,yz and the rare-earth ion d orbitals. Resulting hybridized states manifest themselves as an additional peak in the density of states. We suggest that a corresponding interlayer Mn-R-Mn superexchange interaction stabilizes AFM magnetic ordering in these compounds with Tb doping level x > 0.2 . The results of DFT calculations are in agreement with X-ray photoemission spectra for La1-xTbxMn2Si2 .

Nanocrystalline Al7075 + 1 wt % Zr Alloy Prepared Using Mechanical Milling and Spark Plasma Sintering

PubMed Central

Málek, Přemysl; Minárik, Peter; Chráska, Tomáš; Novák, Pavel; Průša, Filip

2017-01-01

The microstructure, phase composition, and microhardness of both gas-atomized and mechanically milled powders of the Al7075 + 1 wt % Zr alloy were investigated. The gas-atomized powder exhibited a cellular microstructure (grain size of a few µm) with layers of intermetallic phases along the cell boundaries. Mechanical milling (400 revolutions per minute (RPM)/8 h) resulted in a grain size reduction to the nanocrystalline range (20 to 100 nm) along with the dissolution of the intermetallic phases. Milling led to an increase in the powder’s microhardness from 97 to 343 HV. Compacts prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) exhibited negligible porosity. The grain size of the originally gas-atomized material was retained, but the continuous layers of intermetallic phases were replaced by individual particles. Recrystallization led to a grain size increase to 365 nm in the SPS compact prepared from the originally milled powder. Small precipitates of the Al3Zr phase were observed in the SPS compacts, and they are believed to be responsible for the retainment of the sub-microcrystalline microstructure during SPS. A more intensive precipitation in this SPS compact can be attributed to a faster diffusion due to a high density of dislocations and grain boundaries in the milled powder. PMID:28930192

Enthalpies of formation of Cd–Pr intermetallic compounds and thermodynamic assessment of the Cd–Pr system

PubMed Central

Reichmann, Thomas L.; Richter, Klaus W.; Delsante, Simona; Borzone, Gabriella; Ipser, Herbert

2014-01-01

In the present study standard enthalpies of formation were measured by reaction and solution calorimetry at stoichiometric compositions of Cd2Pr, Cd3Pr, Cd58Pr13 and Cd6Pr. The corresponding values were determined to be −46.0, −38.8, −35.2 and −24.7 kJ/mol(at), respectively. These data together with thermodynamic data and phase diagram information from literature served as input data for a CALPHAD-type optimization of the Cd–Pr phase diagram. The complete composition range could be described precisely with the present models, both with respect to phase equilibria as well as to thermodynamic input data. The thermodynamic parameters of all intermetallic compounds were modelled following Neumann–Kopp rule. Temperature dependent contributions to the individual Gibbs energies were used for all compounds. Extended solid solubilities are well described for the low- and high-temperature modifications of Pr and also for the intermetallic compound CdPr. A quite good agreement with all viable data available from literature was found and is presented. PMID:25540475

Magnetic order of intermetallic FeGa3 -yGey studied by μ SR and 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munevar, J.; Cabrera-Baez, M.; Alzamora, M.; Larrea, J.; Bittar, E. M.; Baggio-Saitovitch, E.; Litterst, F. J.; Ribeiro, R. A.; Avila, M. A.; Morenzoni, E.

2017-03-01

Temperature-dependent magnetization, muon spin rotation, and 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy experiments performed on crystals of intermetallic FeGa3 -yGey (y =0.11 ,0.14 ,0.17 ,0.22 ,0.27 ,0.29 ,0.32 ) are reported. Whereas at y =0.11 even a sensitive magnetic microprobe such as μ SR does not detect magnetism, all other samples display weak ferromagnetism with a magnetic moment of up to 0.22 μB per Fe atom. As a function of doping and of temperature, a crossover from short-range to long-range magnetic order is observed, characterized by a broadly distributed spontaneous internal field. However, y =0.14 and 0.17 remain in the short-range-ordered state down to the lowest investigated temperature. The transition from short-range to long-range order appears to be accompanied by a change of the character of the spin fluctuations, which exhibit a spin-wave excitation signature in the long-range-order part of the phase diagram. Mössbauer spectroscopy for y =0.27 and 0.32 indicates that the internal field lies in the plane perpendicular to the crystallographic c axis. The field distribution and its evolution with doping suggest that the details of the Fe magnetic moment formation and the consequent magnetic state are determined not only by the dopant concentration, but also by the way the replacement of the Ga atoms surrounding the Fe is accomplished.

Computer simulations of disordering kinetics in irradiated intermetallic compounds

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Spaczer, M.; Caro, A.; Victoria, M.

1994-11-01

Molecular-dynamics computer simulations of collision cascades in intermetallic Cu[sub 3]Au, Ni[sub 3]Al, and NiAl have been performed to study the nature of the disordering processes in the collision cascade. The choice of these systems was suggested by the quite accurate description of the thermodynamic properties obtained using embedded-atom-type potentials. Since melting occurs in the core of the cascades, interesting effects appear as a result of the superposition of the loss (and subsequent recovery) of the crystalline order and the evolution of the chemical order, both processes being developed on different time scales. In our previous simulations on Ni[sub 3]Al andmore » Cu[sub 3]Au [T. Diaz de la Rubia, A. Caro, and M. Spaczer, Phys. Rev. B 47, 11 483 (1993)] we found a significant difference between the time evolution of the chemical short-range order (SRO) and the crystalline order in the cascade core for both alloys, namely the complete loss of the crystalline structure but only partial chemical disordering. Recent computer simulations in NiAl show the same phenomena. To understand these features we study the liquid phase of these three alloys and present simulation results concerning the dynamical melting of small samples, examining the atomic mobility, the relaxation time, and the saturation value of the chemical short-range order. An analytic model for the time evolution of the SRO is given.« less

A DFT study of thermodynamic properties of C36 and C14 Fe2Zr Laves phases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Kawsar; Ghosh, P. S.; Arya, A. K.

2018-04-01

Fe-Zr alloys are promising materials for metallic waste immobilization in nuclear industry. C36 and C14 Fe2Zr Laves phases are frequently observed in Fe-Zr alloys that can host radionuclides. The phonon dispersions of C36 and C14 Fe2Zr Laves phases shows that both intermetallics are dynamically stable. The Helmholtz free energy, vibrational entropy, internal energy and specific heat at constant volume has been calculated. The zero point energies of C36 and C14 phases are 9.23 and 9.91 kJ/mole, respectively. The vibrational free energy becomes negative at 250 K and 270 K. The high temperature specific heat at constant volume of both intermetallics is 74 J/K/mole.

Formation Of Nano Layered Lamellar Structure In a Processed γ-TiAl Based Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heshmati-Manesh, S.; Shakoorian, H.; Armaki, H. Ghassemi; Ahmadabadi, M. Nili

2009-06-01

In this research, microstructures of an intermetallic alloy based on γ-TiAl has been investigated by optical and transmission electron microscopy. Samples of Ti-47Al-2Cr alloy were subjected to either a cyclic heat treatment or thermomechanical treatment with the aim of microstructural refinement. In both cases it was found that very fine lamellar structure with an interlamellar spacing in the nano scale is formed. Upon cyclic heat treatment, nano layers of α2 and γ ordered intermetallic phases were either formed during rapid cooling cycle in competition with massive structure formation, or formed as secondary lamellar structure during final stages of cyclic heat treatment. Also, TEM observations in hot forged specimens with initial lamellar structure revealed that micro twins form during the deformation within lamellar structure with twinning plates parallel to lamellar interfaces. Concurrent dynamic recrystallisation results in a nano layered structure with an interlamellar spacing of less than 100 nm.

A review on the synthesis, crystal growth, structure and physical properties of rare earth based quaternary intermetallic compounds

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mumbaraddi, Dundappa; Sarkar, Sumanta; Peter, Sebastian C., E-mail: sebastiancp@jncasr.ac.in

2016-04-15

This review highlights the synthesis and crystal growth of quaternary intermetallic compounds based on rare earth metals. In the first part of this review, we highlight briefly about intermetallics and their versatile properties in comparison to the constituent elements. In the next part, we have discussed about various synthesis techniques with more focus on the metal flux technique towards the well shaped crystal growth of novel compounds. In the subsequent parts, several disordered quaternary compounds have been reviewed and then outlined most known ordered quaternary compounds with their complex structure. A special attention has been given to the ordered compoundsmore » with structural description and relation to the parent binary and ternary compounds. The importance of electronic and structural feature is highlighted as the key roles in designing these materials for emerging applications. - Graphical abstract: Rare earth based quaternary intermetallic compounds crystallize in complex novel crystal structures. The diversity in the crystal structure may induce unique properties and can be considered them as future materials. - Highlights: • Crystal growth and crystal structure of quaternary rare earth based intermetallics. • Structural complexity of quaternary compounds in comparison to the parent compounds. • Novel quaternary compounds display unique crystal structure.« less

Electron density determination and bonding in tetragonal binary intermetallics by convergent beam electron diffraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sang, Xiahan

Intermetallics offer unique property combinations often superior to those of more conventional solid solution alloys of identical composition. Understanding of bonding in intermetallics would greatly accelerate development of intermetallics for advanced and high performance engineering applications. Tetragonal intermetallics L10 ordered TiAl, FePd and FePt are used as model systems to experimentally measure their electron densities using quantitative convergent beam electron diffraction (QCBED) method and then compare details of the 3d-4d (FePd) and 3d-5d (FePt) electron interactions to elucidate their role on properties of the respective ferromagnetic L10-ordered intermetallics FePd and FePt. A new multi-beam off-zone axis condition QCBED method has been developed to increase sensitivity of CBED patterns to change of structure factors and the anisotropic Debye-Waller (DW) factors. Unprecedented accuracy and precision in structure and DW factor measurements has been achieved by acquiring CBED patterns using beam-sample geometry that ensures strong dynamical interaction between the fast electrons and the periodic potential in the crystalline samples. This experimental method has been successfully applied to diamond cubic Si, and chemically ordered B2 cubic NiAl, tetragonal L10 ordered TiAl and FePd. The accurate and precise experimental DW and structure factors for L10 TiAl and FePd allow direct evaluation of computer calculations using the current state of the art density functional theory (DFT) based electron structure modeling. The experimental electron density difference map of L1 0 TiAl shows that the DFT calculations describe bonding to a sufficient accuracy for s- and p- electrons interaction, e. g., the Al-layer. However, it indicate significant quantitative differences to the experimental measurements for the 3d-3d interactions of the Ti atoms, e.g. in the Ti layers. The DFT calculations for L10 FePd also show that the current DFT approximations insufficiently describe the interaction between Fe-Fe (3d-3d), Fe-Pd (3d-4d) and Pd-Pd (4d-4d) electrons, which indicates the necessity to evaluate applicability of different DFT approximations, and also provides experimental data for the development of new DFT approximation that better describes transition metal based intermetallic systems.

Ordered Pt 3Co Intermetallic Nanoparticles Derived from Metal–Organic Frameworks for Oxygen Reduction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Xiao Xia; Hwang, Sooyeon; Pan, Yung-Tin

Highly ordered Pt alloy structures are proved effective to improve their catalytic activity and stability for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) for proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Here, we report a new approach to preparing ordered Pt 3Co intermetallic nanoparticles through a facile thermal treatment of Pt nanoparticles supported on Co-doped metal-organic framework (MOF)-derived carbon. In particular, the atomically dispersed Co sites, which are originally embedded into MOF-derived carbon, diffuse into Pt nanocrystals and form ordered Pt 3Co structures. It is very crucial for the formation of the ordered Pt 3Co to carefully control the doping content of Co intomore » the MOFs and the heating temperatures for Co diffusion. The optimal Pt 3Co nanoparticle catalyst has achieved significantly enhanced activity and stability, exhibiting a half-wave potential up to 0.92 V vs. RHE and only losing 12 mV after 30,000 potential cycling between 0.6 and 1.0 V. The highly ordered intermetallic structure was retained after the accelerated stress tests evidenced by atomic-scale elemental mapping. Fuel cell tests further verified the high intrinsic activity of the ordered Pt 3Co catalysts. Unlike the direct use of MOF-derived carbon supports for depositing Pt, we utilized MOF-derived carbon containing atomically dispersed Co sites as Co sources to prepare ordered Pt 3Co intermetallic catalysts. Finally, the new synthesis approach provides an effective strategy to develop active and stable Pt alloy catalysts by leveraging the unique properties of MOFs such as 3D structures, high surface areas, and controlled nitrogen doping.« less

Ordered Pt 3Co Intermetallic Nanoparticles Derived from Metal–Organic Frameworks for Oxygen Reduction

DOE PAGES

Wang, Xiao Xia; Hwang, Sooyeon; Pan, Yung-Tin; ...

2018-06-06

Highly ordered Pt alloy structures are proved effective to improve their catalytic activity and stability for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) for proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Here, we report a new approach to preparing ordered Pt 3Co intermetallic nanoparticles through a facile thermal treatment of Pt nanoparticles supported on Co-doped metal-organic framework (MOF)-derived carbon. In particular, the atomically dispersed Co sites, which are originally embedded into MOF-derived carbon, diffuse into Pt nanocrystals and form ordered Pt 3Co structures. It is very crucial for the formation of the ordered Pt 3Co to carefully control the doping content of Co intomore » the MOFs and the heating temperatures for Co diffusion. The optimal Pt 3Co nanoparticle catalyst has achieved significantly enhanced activity and stability, exhibiting a half-wave potential up to 0.92 V vs. RHE and only losing 12 mV after 30,000 potential cycling between 0.6 and 1.0 V. The highly ordered intermetallic structure was retained after the accelerated stress tests evidenced by atomic-scale elemental mapping. Fuel cell tests further verified the high intrinsic activity of the ordered Pt 3Co catalysts. Unlike the direct use of MOF-derived carbon supports for depositing Pt, we utilized MOF-derived carbon containing atomically dispersed Co sites as Co sources to prepare ordered Pt 3Co intermetallic catalysts. Finally, the new synthesis approach provides an effective strategy to develop active and stable Pt alloy catalysts by leveraging the unique properties of MOFs such as 3D structures, high surface areas, and controlled nitrogen doping.« less

First principles electronic and thermal properties of some AlRE intermetallics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srivastava, Vipul; Sanyal, Sankar P.; Rajagopalan, M.

2008-10-01

A study on structural and electronic properties of non-magnetic cubic B 2-type AlRE (RE=Sc, Y, La, Ce, Pr and Lu) intermetallics has been done theoretically. The self-consistent tight binding linear muffin tin orbital method is used to describe the electronic properties of these intermetallics at ambient and at high pressure. These compounds show metallic behavior under ambient conditions. The variation of density of states under compression indicates some possibility of structural phase transformation in AlLa, AlCe and AlPr. Thermal properties like Debye temperature and Grüneisen constant are calculated at T=0 K and at ambient pressure within the Debye-Grüneisen model and compared with the others’ theoretical results. Our results are in good agreement. We have also performed a pressure-induced variation of Debye temperature and have found a decrease in Debye temperature around 40 kbar in AlRE (RE=La, Ce, Pr) intermetallics.

Prediction and characterization of an Mg-Al intermetallic compound with potentially improved ductility via orbital-free and Kohn-Sham density functional theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhuang, Houlong L.; Chen, Mohan; Carter, Emily A.

2017-10-01

Magnesium-aluminum (Mg-Al) intermetallic compounds that form as precipitates can significantly influence the mechanical properties of Mg-Al alloys. A computational evaluation of known and unknown Mg-Al intermetallic compounds could help design new Mg-Al alloy microstructures with optimal properties. Here, we employ the cluster-expansion method with energies efficiently calculated with orbital-free density functional theory (OFDFT) and predict a new, metastable intermetallic compound Mg3Al with a D019 hexagonal structure that is slightly more stable than an alternative L12 cubic structure. We apply Kohn-Sham DFT (KSDFT) to accurately evaluate various metastability criteria for D019 and L12 Mg3Al, including Born’s criterion and phonon dispersion. We show that both Mg3Al crystalline phases satisfy the metastability criteria and hence should be at least metastable. We further compare ductility metrics for D019 and L12 Mg3Al to that of hexagonal-close-packed Mg by computing Pugh’s ratio and generalized stacking fault energies. The ductility is predicted to follow the order: D019 Mg3Al > L12 Mg3Al > Mg, based on the highest Pugh’s ratio and the lowest unstable stacking and twinning fault energies of D019 Mg3Al compared to that of Mg. We also predict a very low antiphase boundary energy for Mg3Al and therefore expect D019 Mg3Al to be beneficial for improving the ductility of Mg-rich Mg-Al alloys. A computational design of Mg-Al alloy microstructures may become possible by combining the strengths of both OFDFT and KSDFT, i.e., the efficiency of the former and the accuracy of the latter, as demonstrated here.

The growth of protective ultra-thin alumina layers on γ-TiAl(1 1 1) intermetallic single-crystal surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maurice, V.; Despert, G.; Zanna, S.; Josso, P.; Bacos, M.-P.; Marcus, P.

2005-12-01

An XPS and AES study of the early stages of oxidation of γ-TiAl(1 1 1) surfaces at 650 °C under 1.0 × 10 -7-1.0 × 10 -6 mbar O 2 is reported. The data evidence a first regime of oxidation characterized by the growth of a pure alumina layer followed by a second regime of simultaneous oxidation of both alloying elements. In the first regime, continuous alumina layers from ˜0.4 to ˜1.5 nm thick have been observed by angle-resolved XPS. The composition of the metallic phase underneath the growing oxide is modified by a depletion of Al and the injection of Al vacancies in the metal during the growth of the transient alumina formed at 650 °C. The onset of Ti oxidation was repeatedly observed for a critical concentration in the modified region of the alloy underneath the alumina layer: Ti 75±2Al 25±2 (Ti 50Al 17±2V(Al) 33±2), showing that decreasing the number of Ti-Al bonds in the modified intermetallic region increases the activity of Ti up to a critical point where its oxidation at the oxide/metal interface becomes competitive with that of Al. The growth of Ti 3+ and Ti 4+ oxide particles observed above the alumina layer by angle-resolved XPS indicates the transport of titanium cations trough the alumina layer and their subsequent reaction with oxygen at the outer gas/oxide interface. Improving structural ordering in the intermetallic phase slows down the growth kinetics of the alumina layer and the related Al-depletion of the substrate, and increases the resistance of the alloy to the subsequent oxidation of Ti. This is assigned to two combined effects: a slower diffusion of Al in the better ordered metallic phase and the growth of less defective alumina layers allowing to slow down the ionic transport through the oxide. Highly stable and corrosion resistant alloy surfaces covered by a 0.4 nm thick alumina layer have been obtained by slowly oxidizing the alloy at lower partial pressure (<5.0 × 10 -10 mbar O 2).

Superalloy for high-temperature hydrogen environmental applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McKannan, Eugene C. (Inventor); McPherson, William B. (Inventor); Ahmed, Shaffiq (Inventor); Chandler, Shirley S. (Inventor)

1991-01-01

A nickel-based superalloy is provided which is resistant to deterioration in hydrogen at high operating temperatures and pressures, and which thus can be used in hydrogen-fueled spacecraft such as the Space Shuttle. The superalloy is characterized by a two-phase microstructure and consists of a gamma-prime precipitated phase in a gamma matrix. The gamma matrix phase is a primary solid solution and the gamma precipitated phase will be an intermetallic compound of the type A.sub.3 B, such as nickel aluminide or titanide. Both phases are coherent, ordered, and compatible, and thus will retain most of their strength at elevated temperatures. The alloy consists essentially of (by weight): Ni 50-60%, Cr 10-20%, Al 2-6%, Co 2-5%, Ti 3-8%, W 5-12%, Mo 5-10%, Nb 1-3%, wherein the ratio W/MO is approximately equal to 1, and Ti/Al ranges from about 1 to about 2.

Advancement of Compositional and Microstructural Design of Intermetallic γ-TiAl Based Alloys Determined by Atom Probe Tomography

PubMed Central

Klein, Thomas; Clemens, Helmut; Mayer, Svea

2016-01-01

Advanced intermetallic alloys based on the γ-TiAl phase have become widely regarded as most promising candidates to replace heavier Ni-base superalloys as materials for high-temperature structural components, due to their facilitating properties of high creep and oxidation resistance in combination with a low density. Particularly, recently developed alloying concepts based on a β-solidification pathway, such as the so-called TNM alloy, which are already incorporated in aircraft engines, have emerged offering the advantage of being processible using near-conventional methods and the option to attain balanced mechanical properties via subsequent heat-treatment. Development trends for the improvement of alloying concepts, especially dealing with issues regarding alloying element distribution, nano-scale phase characterization, phase stability, and phase formation mechanisms demand the utilization of high-resolution techniques, mainly due to the multi-phase nature of advanced TiAl alloys. Atom probe tomography (APT) offers unique possibilities of characterizing chemical compositions with a high spatial resolution and has, therefore, been widely used in recent years with the aim of understanding the materials constitution and appearing basic phenomena on the atomic scale and applying these findings to alloy development. This review, thus, aims at summarizing scientific works regarding the application of atom probe tomography towards the understanding and further development of intermetallic TiAl alloys. PMID:28773880

TEM study of the martensitic phases in the ductile DyCu and YCu intermetallic compounds [The martensitic phase transformation in ductile DyCu and YCu intermetallic compounds

DOE PAGES

Cao, G. H.; Oertel, C. -G.; Schaarschuch, R.; ...

2017-05-03

DyCu and YCu are representatives of the family of CsCl-type B2 rare earth intermetallic compounds that exhibit high room temperature ductility. Structure, orientation relationship, and morphology of the martensites in the equiatomic compounds DyCu and YCu are examined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM studies show that the martensite structures in DyCu and YCu alloys are virtually identical. The martensite is of orthorhombic CrB-type B33 structure with lattice parameters a = 0.38 nm, b = 1.22 nm, and c = 0.40 nm. (021¯) twins were observed in the B33 DyCu and YCu martensites. The orientation relationship of B33 and B2more » phases is (111¯)[112]B33 || (110)[001]B2. The simulated electron diffraction patterns of the B33 phase are consistent with those of experimental observations. TEM investigations also reveal that a dominant orthorhombic FeB-type B27 martensite with lattice parameters a = 0.71 nm, b = 0.45 nm, and c = 0.54 nm exists in YCu alloy. (11¯ 1) twins were observed in the B27 YCu martensite. As a result, the formation mechanism of B2 to B33 and B2 to B27 phase transformation is discussed.« less

Advancement of Compositional and Microstructural Design of Intermetallic γ-TiAl Based Alloys Determined by Atom Probe Tomography.

PubMed

Klein, Thomas; Clemens, Helmut; Mayer, Svea

2016-09-06

Advanced intermetallic alloys based on the γ-TiAl phase have become widely regarded as most promising candidates to replace heavier Ni-base superalloys as materials for high-temperature structural components, due to their facilitating properties of high creep and oxidation resistance in combination with a low density. Particularly, recently developed alloying concepts based on a β-solidification pathway, such as the so-called TNM alloy, which are already incorporated in aircraft engines, have emerged offering the advantage of being processible using near-conventional methods and the option to attain balanced mechanical properties via subsequent heat-treatment. Development trends for the improvement of alloying concepts, especially dealing with issues regarding alloying element distribution, nano-scale phase characterization, phase stability, and phase formation mechanisms demand the utilization of high-resolution techniques, mainly due to the multi-phase nature of advanced TiAl alloys. Atom probe tomography (APT) offers unique possibilities of characterizing chemical compositions with a high spatial resolution and has, therefore, been widely used in recent years with the aim of understanding the materials constitution and appearing basic phenomena on the atomic scale and applying these findings to alloy development. This review, thus, aims at summarizing scientific works regarding the application of atom probe tomography towards the understanding and further development of intermetallic TiAl alloys.

Polar Intermetallics Pr 5Co 2Ge 3 and Pr 7Co 2Ge 4 With Planar Hydrocarbon-Like Metal Clusters

DOE PAGES

Lin, Qisheng; Aguirre, Kaiser; Saunders, Scott M.; ...

2017-06-19

Planar hydrocarbon-like metal clusters may foster new insights linking organic molecules with conjugated π-π bonding interactions and inorganic structures in terms of their bonding characteristics. However, such clusters are uncommon in polar intermetallics. Herein, we report two polar intermetallic phases, Pr 5Co 2Ge 3 and Pr 7Co 2Ge 4, both of which feature such planar metal clusters, viz., ethylene-like [Co 2Ge 4] clusters plus the concatenated forms and polyacene-like [Co 2Ge 2] n ribbons in Pr 5Co 2Ge 3, and 1,2,4,5-tetramethylbenzene-like [Co4Ge6] cluster in Pr 7Co 2Ge 4. Just as in the related planar organic structures, these metal-metalloid species aremore » dominated by covalent bonding interactions. Both compounds magnetically order at low temperature with net ferromagnetic components: Pr 5Co 2Ge 3 via a series of transitions below 150 K; and Pr 7Co 2Ge 4 via a single ferromagnetic transition at 19 K. Spin-polarized electronic structure calculations for Pr 7Co 2Ge 4 reveal strong spin-orbit coupling within Pr and considerable magnetic contributions from Co atoms. This work suggests that similar structural chemistry can emerge for other rare earth-late transition metal-main group systems.« less

Intermetallic structures with atomic precision for selective hydrogenation of nitroarenes

DOE PAGES

Pei, Yuchen; Qi, Zhiyuan; Goh, Tian Wei; ...

2017-11-14

It is essential to bridge the structure-properties relationship of bimetallic catalysts for the rational design of heterogeneous catalysts. Different from random alloys, intermetallic compounds (IMCs) present atomically-ordered structures, which is advantageous for catalytic mechanism studies. Here, we used Pt-based intermetallic nanoparticles (iNPs), individually encapsulated in mesoporous silica shells, as catalysts for the hydrogenation of nitroarenes to functionalized anilines. With the capping-free nature and ordered atomic structure, PtSn iNPs show >99% selectivity to hydrogenate the nitro group of 3-nitrostyrene albeit with a lower activity, in contrast to Pt 3Sn iNPs and Pt NPs. The geometric structure of PtSn iNPs in eliminatingmore » Pt threefold sites hampers the adsorption/dissociation of molecular H 2 and leads to a non-Horiuti-Polanyi hydrogenation pathway, while Pt 3Sn and Pt surfaces are saturated by atomic H. Calculations using density functional theory (DFT) suggest a preferential adsorption of the nitro group on the intermetallic PtSn surface contributing to its high selectivity.« less

Microstructure characterization of hypereutectoid aluminium bronze composite coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kucita, P.; Wang, S. C.; Li, W. S.; Cook, R. B.; Starink, M. J.

2015-10-01

Hypereutectoid aluminium bronze coating was deposited onto an E.N. 10503 steel substrate using plasma transferred arc welding (PTA). Microstructure characterisation of the coating and a section near the steel substrate joint was carried out using SEM, EBSD, EDS in conjunction with XRD and depth-sensing nano-indentation. The constituent phases in the coating were identified as: martensitic Cu3Al β1' phase, solid solution of Al in Cu α phase and the intermetallic Fe3Al κ1 phase. The region near the steel substrate was characterised by high hardness, large grains and presence of Cu precipitates. No cracks were observed in this region. The coating has high hardness of 4.9GPa and Young's modulus of 121.7GPa. This is attributed to homogeneous distribution of sub microns size Fe3Al intermetallic phase. The implications of the coating to the engineering application of sheet metal forming are discussed.

The Kinetics of TiAl3 Formation in Explosively Welded Ti-Al Multilayers During Heat Treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foadian, Farzad; Soltanieh, Mansour; Adeli, Mandana; Etminanbakhsh, Majid

2016-10-01

Metallic-intermetallic laminate (MIL) composites, including Ti/TiAl3 composite, are promising materials for many applications, namely, in the aerospace industry. One method to produce Ti/TiAl3 laminate composite is to provide close attachment between desired number of titanium and aluminum plates, so that by applying heat and/or pressure, the formation of intermetallic phases between the layers becomes possible. In this work, explosive welding was used to make a strong bond between six alternative Ti and Al layers. The welded samples were annealed at three different temperatures: 903 K, 873 K, and 843 K (630 °C, 600 °C, and 570 °C) in ambient atmosphere, and the variation of the intermetallic layer thickness was used to study the growth kinetics. Microstructural investigations were carried out on the welded and annealed samples using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS). X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique was used to identify the formed intermetallic phases. It was found that at each temperature, two different mechanisms govern the process: reaction controlled and diffusion controlled. The calculated values of activation energies for reaction-controlled and diffusion-controlled mechanisms are 232.1 and 17.4 kJ, respectively.

A Fundamental Study of Inorganic Clathrate and Other Open-Framework Materials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nolas, George

Due to formidable synthetic challenges, many materials of scientific and technological interest are first obtained as microcrystalline powders. High purity, high yield processing techniques are often lacking and thus care must be taken in interpretation of the observed structural, chemical, and physical properties of powder or polycrystalline materials, which can be strongly influenced by extrinsic properties. Furthermore, the preparation of high-quality single crystals for many materials by traditional techniques can be especially challenging in cases where the elemental constituents have greatly differing melting points and/or vapor pressures, when the desired compound is thermodynamically metastable, or where growth with participation ofmore » the melt is generally not possible. New processing techniques are therefore imperative in order to investigate the intrinsic properties of these materials and elucidate their fundamental physical properties. Intermetallic clathrates constitute one such class of materials. The complex crystal structures of intermetallic clathrates are characterized by mainly group 14 host frameworks encapsulating guest-ions in polyhedral cages. The unique features of clathrate structures are intimately related to their physical properties, offering ideal systems for the study of structure-property relationships in crystalline solids. Moreover, intermetallic clathrates are being actively investigated due to their potential for application in thermoelectrics, photovoltaics and opto-electronics, superconductivity, and magnetocaloric technologies. We have developed different processing techniques in order to synthesize phase-pure high yield clathrates reproducibly, as well as grow single crystals for the first time. We also employed these techniques to synthesize new “open-framework” compounds. These advances in materials processing and crystal growth allowed for the investigation of the physical properties of a variety of different clathrate compositions for the first time.« less

New NbCd2 Phase in Niobium-Cadmium Coating Films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volodin, V. N.; Tuleushev, Yu. Zh.; Zhakanbaev, E. A.; Tsai, K. V.; Rofman, O. V.

2018-02-01

Solid solutions in the form of alloy coatings have been obtained for the first time in the Cd concentration range of 64.5% using ion-plasma sputtering and the codeposition of Nb and Cd ultrafine particles. This supports thermal fluctuation melting and the coalescence of fine particles. A coating of niobium and cadmium layers less than 2 nm thick at 68 at % Cd results in the formation of a new phase identified as NbCd2. The tetragonal fcc phase with lattice parameters a = 0.84357 nm and c = 0.54514 nm forms directly during film coating. XRD data for the identification of the intermetallic compound have been determined. The thermal stability of the NbCd 2 intermetallic compound is limited by 200°C. The properties of the synthesized NbCd 2 phase are typical of semiconductors.

The oxidation of Ni-rich Ni-Al intermetallics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doychak, Joseph; Smialek, James L.; Barrett, Charles A.

1988-01-01

The oxidation of Ni-Al intermetallic alloys in the beta-NiAl phase field and in the two phase beta-NiAl/gamma'-Ni3Al phase field has been studied between 1000 and 1400 C. The stoichiometric beta-NiAl alloy doped with Zr was superior to other alloy compositions under cyclic and isothermal oxidation. The isothermal growth rates did not increase monotonically as the alloy Al content was decreased. The characteristically ridged alpha-Al2O3 scale morphology, consisting of cells of thin, textured oxide with thick growth ridges at cell boundaries, forms on oxidized beta-NiAl alloys. The correlation of scale features with isothermal growth rates indicates a predominant grain boundary diffusion growth mechanism. The 1200 C cyclic oxidation resistance decreases near the lower end of the beta-NiAl phase field.

Complex magnetic behaviour and evidence of a superspin glass state in the binary intermetallic compound Er5Pd2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Mohit K.; Yadav, Kavita; Mukherjee, K.

2018-05-01

The binary intermetallic compound Er5Pd2 has been investigated using dc and ac magnetic susceptibilities, magnetic memory effect, isothermal magnetization, non-linear dc susceptibility, heat capacity and magnetocaloric effect studies. Interestingly, even though the compound does not show geometrical frustration it undergoes glassy magnetic phase transition below 17.2 K. Investigation of dc magnetization and heat capacity data divulged absence of long-ranged magnetic ordering. Through the magnetic memory effect, time dependent magnetization and ac susceptibility studies it was revealed that the compound undergoes glass-like freezing below 17.2 K. Analysis of frequency dependence of this transition temperature through scaling and Arrhenius law; along with the Mydosh parameter indicate, that the dynamics in Er5Pd2 are due to the presence of strongly interacting superspins rather than individual spins. This phase transition was further investigated by non-linear dc susceptibility and was characterized by static critical exponents γ and δ. Our results indicate that this compound shows the signature of superspin glass at low temperature. Additionally, both conventional and inverse magnetocaloric effect was observed with a large value of magnetic entropy change and relative cooling power. Our results suggest that Er5Pd2 can be classified as a superspin glass system with large magnetocaloric effect.

Characteristics of joining and hybrid composite forging of aluminum solid parts and galvanized steel sheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wesling, V.; Treutler, K.; Bick, T.; Stonis, M.; Langner, J.; Kriwall, M.

2018-06-01

In lightweight construction, light metals like aluminum are used in addition to high-strength steels. However, a welded joint of aluminum and steel leads to the precipitation of brittle, intermetallic phases and contact corrosion. Nevertheless, to use the advantages of this combination in terms of weight saving composite hybrid forging has been developed. In this process, an aluminum solid part and a steel sheet were formed in a single step and joined at the same time with zinc as brazing material. For this purpose, the zinc was applied by hot dipping on the aluminum in order to produce a connection via this layer in a forming process, under pressure and heat. Due to the formed intermediate layer of zinc, the formation of the Fe-Al intermetallic phases and the contact corrosion are excluded. By determining the mathematical relationships between joining parameters and the connection properties the strength of a specific joint geometry could be adjusted to reach the level of conventional joining techniques. In addition to the presentation of the joint properties, the influence of the joining process on the structure of the involved materials is also shown. Furthermore, the failure behavior under static tensile and shear stress will be shown.

Joining thick section aluminum to steel with suppressed FeAl intermetallic formation via friction stir dovetailing

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Reza-E-Rabby, Md.; Ross, Kenneth; Overman, Nicole R.

A new solid-phase technique called friction stir dovetailing (FSD) has been developed for joining thick section aluminum to steel. In FSD, mechanical interlocks are formed at the aluminum-steel interface and are reinforced by metallurgical bonds where intermetallic growth has been uniquely suppressed. Lap shear testing shows superior strength and extension at failure compared to popular friction stir approaches where metallurgical bonding is the only joining mechanism. High resolution microscopy revealed the presence of a 40-70 nm interlayer having a composition of 76.4 at% Al, 18.4 at% Fe, and 5.2 at% Si, suggestive of limited FeAl3 intermetallic formation.

The stability of alloying additions in Zirconium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lumley, S. C.; Murphy, S. T.; Burr, P. A.; Grimes, R. W.; Chard-Tuckey, P. R.; Wenman, M. R.

2013-06-01

The interactions of Cr, Fe, Nb, Ni, Sn, V and Y with Zr are simulated using density functional theory. Thermodynamic stabilities of various different Zr based intermetallic compounds, including multiple Laves phase structures and solutions of alloying additions in both α and β-Zr were investigated. The thermodynamic driving forces in this system can be correlated with trends in atomic radii and the relative electronegativities of the different species. Formation energies of Fe, Ni and Sn based intermetallic compounds were found to be negative, and the ZrFe and ZrNi intermetallics were metastable. Most elements displayed negative energies of solution in β-Zr but positive energies in the α-phase, with the exception of Sn (which was negative for both) and Y (which was positive for both). Solutions formed from intermetallics showed a similar trend. Cr -3s23p64s13d5. Fe -4s23d6. Nb -4s24p65s14d4. Ni -4s23d8. Sn -5s25p2. V -3s23p64s23d3. Y -4s24p65s24d1. Zr -4s24p65s24d2. The pseudopotential scheme used is "on-the-fly" generation, in which an isolated all-electron calculation is carried out before the main calculation and used as a starting point to generate a pseudopotential. This was carried out for all pseudopotentials except Cr and V, as the default on-the-fly pseudopotentials for these elements required a much higher cut-off energy. Instead, standard ultrasoft pseudopotentials, as found in the CASTEP pseudopotential library, were used for Cr and V. All pseudopotentials (both on-the-fly and library) are of the ultrasoft type [15], and so are compatible with each-other. Exchange-correlation was modelled using the Perdew, Burke and Ernzerhof formalisation of the Generalised Gradient Approximation [16].A series of simulations were run to establish an appropriate basis set cut-off energy, and the density of sampling in the Brillouin zone. The results were converged to within two decimal places for a cut-off energy of 450 eV and a k-point spacing of 0.003 nm-1. The k-points were arranged in a standard gamma centred Monkhorst-Pack grid [17]. In these simulations, and in all subsequent simulations, the energy of the electron wavefunctions was considered converged to a minimum value when the difference between successive iterations was below 10-6 eV/atom. Integration of the Brillouin zone was achieved using a cold smearing scheme (Methfessel-Paxton) [18], with a smearing parameter of 1 eV, in order to account for partial occupancies in the band structure. Simulations that varied this value by up to 0.9 eV found negligible difference in the final state of the system, so a higher value was chosen to speed convergence.The simulations are static calculations, that is, they identify the minimum energy positions for atoms in a given structure and as such relate to zero temperature. When modelling cells, in order to find useful enthalpies and structural properties the starting structure was selected from literature values and the geometry of the system was allowed to relax, via a Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno algorithm [19]. The positions of the ions, and the size and the shape of the cell boundaries are all allowed to relax. This is an appropriate scheme of relaxation, as the goal is to approximate a system with a limited concentration of alloying additions, after it has been allowed to reach equilibrium. The criteria for a successful iteration were selected as a balance between computational cost and numerical accuracy and are shown below: Energy derivative <0.001 eV. Force on ions <0.05 eV nm-1. Displacement of ions derivative <0.001 nm. Total stress derivative <0.1 GPa. When modelling defects, a 3 × 3 × 3 supercell was used. In the case of α-phase Zr, this was created from the primitive hexagonal cell and in the case of β-phase Zr, the conventional unit cell. Both supercells contained 54 atoms. Although this choice introduces some anisotropy into the dimensions of the hexagonal system, it means that α and β-phase cells have an identical number of atoms, and hence identical alloying addition concentrations of 1.85 at.%. This concentration is useful, as the weight percent composition is appropriate to commercial alloys, particularly in the case of Sn, although it is still relevant with other alloying additions.It is important to note that magnetic effects can have a substantial impact on overall lattice parameters and energies. Consequently care must be taken to ensure that the correct final magnetic state is converged upon. For all simulations carried out, this was achieved by setting the initial spin state of the system to the sum of individual formal spins of each of the present atoms and performing a spin polarised calculation. This produced reasonable magnetic configurations in most cases, with the exception of pure Cr. In order that the known magnetic state of Cr (anti-ferromagnetic) was achieved, it was necessary to specify the spin states of each atom individually, prior to convergence. Overall, much of the behaviour of this system can be understood in terms of simple trends in energy and defect volume as a function of the electronegativities, metallic radii or valence electron concentrations of the alloying elements. Formation energies for intermetallic phases show that some compounds are stable, while others are metastable. In particular, ZrFe and ZrNi are metastable, although ZrNi has a more negative formation energy. It may be that the presence of the ZrFe phase in Zr alloys is a result of kinetics rather than thermodynamics. It is also likely that the corresponding Ni and Fe phases stabilise each other to some degree. Speculative ZrCr and ZrV intermetallics have substantially positive formation energies, implying they are not stable. There is an energetic preference for Cr and Fe to reside on interstitial sites, rather than substitutional sites. With all additions, an interstitial alloy produces a significant, anisotropic lattice strain. Defect volumes for the different elements correlate well with metallic radii, with some anomalies regarding Sn (which has a larger volume than expected) and Ni (which shows a smaller volume than expected when on the less stable tetrahedral interstitial site). Most alloying additions show limited solubility (from their single phase metals) in α-Zr, but much greater solubility in β-Zr. The same is true for solutions from corresponding Zr intermetallics. Sn shows solubility in both α and β-Zr. However, most Sn intermetallics, show only a marginally positive solution energy, meaning they are likely to be soluble at elevated temperatures. Y, which does not form a stable intermetallic with Zr and has little equilibrium solubility in both α and β-Zr. Nb does not form a stable intermetallic and has little equilibrium solubility in α-Zr. However, unlike Y, Nb is soluble in β-Zr. In general, these conclusions are in agreement with experimental observations where available. However, many of the specific energies or defect volumes have not been previously established, or have been arrived at by disparate methods so as to hinder comparison. While these numbers provide a useful body of data, much remains to be done, especially since kinetic effects are important, as are the interplays between multiple alloying additions.

Die Soldering in Aluminium Die Casting

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Han, Q.; Kenik, E.A.; Viswanathan, S.

2000-03-15

Two types of tests, dipping tests and dip-coating tests were carried out on small steel cylinders using pure aluminum and 380 alloy to investigate the mechanism of die soldering during aluminum die casting. Optical and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the morphology and composition of the phases formed during soldering. A soldering mechanism is postulated based on experimental observations. A soldering critical temperature is postulated at which iron begins to react with aluminum to form an aluminum-rich liquid phase and solid intermetallic compounds. When the temperature at the die surface is higher than this critical temperature, the aluminum-richmore » phase is liquid and joins the die with the casting during the subsequent solidification. The paper discusses the mechanism of soldering for the case of pure aluminum and 380 alloy casting in a steel mold, the factors that promote soldering, and the strength of the bond formed when soldering occurs. conditions, an aluminum-rich soldering layer may also form over the intermetallic layer. Although a significant amount of research has been conducted on the nature of these intermetallics, little is known about the conditions under which soldering occurs.« less

Exploring phase stability, electronic and mechanical properties of Ce–Pb intermetallic compounds using first-principles calculations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tao, Xiaoma; Computational Alloy Design Group, IMDEA Materials Institute, Getafe, Madrid 28906; Wang, Ziru

2016-05-15

The phase stability, electronic and mechanical properties of Ce–Pb intermetallics have been investigated by using first-principles calculations. Five stable and four metastable phases of Ce–Pb intermetallics were verified. Among them, CePb{sub 2} has been confirmed as HfGa{sub 2}-type structure. For Ce{sub 5}Pb{sub 3}, the high pressure phase transformation from D8{sub m} to D8{sub 8} with trivalent Ce has been predicted to occur at P=1.2 GPa and a high temperature phase transformation has been predicted from D8{sub m} to D8{sub 8} with tetravalent Ce at 531.5 K. The calculated lattice constants of the five stable phases are in good agreement withmore » experimental values. The electronic density of states, charge density and electron localization function of Ce{sub 3}Pb have been calculated, which indicated that the Ce and Pb show ionic behavior. The polycrystalline bulk modulus, shear modulus, Young's modulus, and Poisson's ratio are also estimated from the calculated single crystalline elastic constants. All of the calculated elastic constants satisfy mechanical stability criteria. The microhardness and mechanical anisotropy are predicted. The anisotropic nature of the Ce–Pb intermetallic compounds are demonstrated by the three-dimensional orientation dependent surfaces of Young's moduli and linear compressibility are also demonstrated. The longitudinal, transverse and average sound velocities and the Debye temperatures are also obtained in this work. The Ce{sub 3}Pb has the largest Debye temperature of 192.6 K, which means the Ce{sub 3}Pb has a highest melting point and high thermal conductivity than other compounds. - Graphical abstract: The convex hull plots of the enthalpies of formation for Ce–Pb binary systems calculated at 0 K. - Highlights: • The five stable and four metastable phases in the Ce–Pb binary system were predicted. • The crystal structure of CePb{sub 2} has been confirmed as HfGa{sub 2}-type.« less

Up-and-coming IMCs. [Intermetallic-Matrix Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bowman, Randy; Noebe, Ronald

1989-01-01

While the good oxidation and environmental resistance, high melting points, and comparatively low densities of such ordered intermetallics as Ti3Al, NiAl, FeAl, and NbAl3 render them good candidates for advanced aerospace structures, their poor toughness at low temperatures and low strength at elevated temperatures have prompted the development of fiber-reinforced intermetallic-matrix composites (IMCs) with more balanced characteristics. Fabrication methods for continuous-fiber IMCs under development include the P/M 'powder cloth' method, the foil/fiber method, and thermal spraying. The ultimate success of IMCs depends on fibers truly compatible with the matrix materials.

The Microstructure and Tensile Properties of a Newly Developed Mg-Al/Mg3Sb2 In Situ Composite in As-Cast and Extruded Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montajabnia, A.; Pourbahari, B.; Emamy, M.

2018-04-01

The microstructures and tensile properties of Mg-x wt%Al-y wt%Sb alloys have been studied where x/y ratio was 1 and Sb(Al) contents were 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt%, respectively. The results indicated that by increasing Sb(Al) content, not only the crystals of primary Mg3Sb2 alter from small flake-like particles to polygonal or needle-like morphology, but also the eutectic structure changes from semi-continuous network in Mg-5Al-5Sb to continuous network in Mg-20Sb-20Al alloy. The results obtained from thermal analysis revealed different peaks related to the formation of Mg3Sb2 as primary phase and eutectic structure containing Mg17Al12 + Al3Mg2 intermetallic phases. Further results also revealed that Sb(Al) additions change the solidification performance of the material by depressing the Mg3Sb2 nucleation temperature, reducing solidification range and widening eutectic area. Tensile testing results showed that with the increase in Sb (Al) content, ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation values of the alloys are decreased in as-cast condition. But, significant improvement in the UTS and elongation values of the extruded specimens was attributed to the severe fragmentation of intermetallic phases and well distributed fine particles in the matrix which provided proper obstacles for dislocation motion. It was interesting to note that the fracture behavior of intermetallic particles was found to be different, while Mg3Sb2 was ductile, intermetallic compounds in eutectic regions were brittle.

Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Nanointermetallic Phase Dispersed Al65Cu20Ti15 Amorphous Matrix Composite Synthesized by Mechanical Alloying and Hot Isostatic Pressing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roy, D.; Mitra, R.; Ojo, O. A.; Lojkowski, W.; Manna, I.

2011-08-01

The structure and mechanical properties of nanocrystalline intermetallic phase dispersed amorphous matrix composite prepared by hot isostatic pressing (HIP) of mechanically alloyed Al65Cu20Ti15 amorphous powder in the temperature range 573 K to 873 K (300 °C to 600 °C) with 1.2 GPa pressure were studied. Phase identification by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and microstructural investigation by transmission electron microscopy confirmed that sintering in this temperature range led to partial crystallization of the amorphous powder. The microstructures of the consolidated composites were found to have nanocrystalline intermetallic precipitates of Al5CuTi2, Al3Ti, AlCu, Al2Cu, and Al4Cu9 dispersed in amorphous matrix. An optimum combination of density (3.73 Mg/m3), hardness (8.96 GPa), compressive strength (1650 MPa), shear strength (850 MPa), and Young's modulus (182 GPa) were obtained in the composite hot isostatically pressed ("hipped") at 773 K (500 °C). Furthermore, these results were compared with those from earlier studies based on conventional sintering (CCS), high pressure sintering (HPS), and pulse plasma sintering (PPS). HIP appears to be the most preferred process for achieving an optimum combination of density and mechanical properties in amorphous-nanocrystalline intermetallic composites at temperatures ≤773 K (500 °C), while HPS is most suited for bulk amorphous alloys. Both density and volume fraction of intermetallic dispersoids were found to influence the mechanical properties of the composites.

Atomic disorder, phase transformation, and phase restoration in Co3Sn2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

di, L. M.; Zhou, G. F.; Bakker, H.

1993-03-01

The behavior of the intermetallic compound Co3Sn2 upon ball milling was studied by x-ray diffraction, high-field-magnetization measurements, and subsequently by differential scanning calorimetry. It turns out that starting from the stoichiometric-ordered compound, mechanical attrition of Co3Sn2 generates atomic disorder in the early stage of milling. The nonequilibrium phase transformation from the low-temperature phase with orthorhombic structure to the high-temperature phase with a hexagonal structure was observed in the intermediate stage of milling. It was accompanied by the creation of increasing atomic disorder. After long milling periods, the phase transformation was completed and the atomic disordering became saturated. All the physical parameters measured in the present work remained constant during this period. The above outcome was confirmed by comparison with the high-temperature phase thermally induced by quenching. The good agreement of the results obtained by different techniques proves that the ball milling generates well-defined metastable states in Co3Sn2.

Characterization of Low-Symmetry Structures from Phase Equilibrium of Fe-Al System-Microstructures and Mechanical Properties.

PubMed

Matysik, Piotr; Jóźwiak, Stanisław; Czujko, Tomasz

2015-03-04

Fe-Al intermetallic alloys with aluminum content over 60 at% are in the area of the phase equilibrium diagram that is considerably less investigated in comparison to the high-symmetry Fe₃Al and FeAl phases. Ambiguous crystallographic information and incoherent data referring to the phase equilibrium diagrams placed in a high-aluminum range have caused confusions and misinformation. Nowadays unequivocal material properties description of FeAl₂, Fe₂Al₅ and FeAl₃ intermetallic alloys is still incomplete. In this paper, the influence of aluminum content and processing parameters on phase composition is presented. The occurrence of low-symmetry FeAl₂, Fe₂Al₅ and FeAl₃ structures determined by chemical composition and phase transformations was defined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) examinations. These results served to verify diffraction investigations (XRD) and to explain the mechanical properties of cast materials such as: hardness, Young's modulus and fracture toughness evaluated using the nano-indentation technique.

A ship-in-a-bottle strategy to synthesize encapsulated intermetallic nanoparticle catalysts: Exemplified for furfural hydrogenation

DOE PAGES

Maligal-Ganesh, Raghu V.; Xiao, Chaoxian; Goh, Tian Wei; ...

2016-01-28

In this paper, intermetallic compounds are garnering increasing attention as efficient catalysts for improved selectivity in chemical processes. Here, using a ship-in-a-bottle strategy, we synthesize single-phase platinum-based intermetallic nanoparticles (NPs) protected by a mesoporous silica (mSiO 2) shell by heterogeneous reduction and nucleation of Sn, Pb, or Zn in mSiO 2-encapsulated Pt NPs. For selective hydrogenation of furfural to furfuryl alcohol, a dramatic increase in activity and selectivity is observed when intermetallic NPs catalysts are used in comparison to Pt@mSiO 2. Among the intermetallic NPs, PtSn@mSiO 2 exhibits the best performance, requiring only one-tenth of the quantity of Pt usedmore » in Pt@mSiO 2 for similar activity and near 100% selectivity to furfuryl alcohol. A high-temperature oxidation–reduction treatment easily reverses any carbon deposition-induced catalyst deactivation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy shows the importance of surface composition to the activity, whereas density functional theory calculations reveal that the enhanced selectivity on PtSn compared to Pt is due to the different furfural adsorption configurations on the two surfaces.« less

The Effects of Grain Refinement and Rare Earth Intermetallics on Mechanical Properties of As-Cast and Wrought Magnesium Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pourbahari, Bita; Mirzadeh, Hamed; Emamy, Massoud

2018-03-01

The effects of rare earth intermetallics and grain refinement by alloying and hot extrusion on the mechanical properties of Mg-Gd-Al-Zn alloys have been studied to elucidate some useful ways to enhance the mechanical properties of magnesium alloys. It was revealed that aluminum as an alloying element is a much better grain refining agent compared with gadolinium, but the simultaneous presence of Al and Gd can refine the as-cast grain size more efficiently. The presence of fine and widely dispersed rare earth intermetallics was found to be favorable to achieve finer recrystallized grains during hot deformation by extrusion. The presence of coarse dendritic structure in the GZ61 alloy, grain boundary eutectic containing Mg17Al12 phase in the AZ61 alloy, and rare earth intermetallics with unfavorable morphology in the Mg-4Gd-2Al-1Zn alloy was found to be detrimental to mechanical properties of the alloy in the as-cast condition. As a result, the microstructural refinement induced by hot extrusion process resulted in a significant enhancement in strength and ductility of the alloys. The presence of intermetallic compounds in the extruded Mg-4Gd-2Al-1Zn and Mg-2Gd-4Al-1Zn alloys deteriorated tensile properties, which was related to the fact that such intermetallic compounds act as stress risers and microvoid initiation sites.

Iron's Role in Aluminum: A Powder Metallurgy and Sustainability Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saller, Brandon Dale

The family of Al-Fe alloys is both scientifically and technologically interesting for several reasons. First, the low equilibrium solid solubility (0.03 at.%) and diffusivity of Fe in Al suggest that the alloys containing these two elements should be thermally stable. Many studies have tried to extend this low solubility value via non-equilibrium processing routes. Second, published results suggest that there is a range of intermetallic phases, including the metastable orthorhombic Al6Fe and the equilibrium monoclinic Al13Fe4, for example, the formation of which depends on solidification and subsequent processing conditions. Third, from a sustainability standpoint, both Al and Fe are present in bauxite (aluminum ore), however up to 40 wt.% Fe-oxide present in bauxite is discarded as a waste product, creating red mud pits. In order to understand the multiple facets and implications of iron's role in aluminum, a systematic investigation was performed into the precipitates that form as a function of thermal exposure and their subsequent effect on the tensile behavior of the alloy. In this study, Al-2at.% Fe and Al-5at.% Fe powders were synthesized via helium gas atomization and argon gas atomization, respectively. Cooling rates upwards of 106 K/s were achieved resulting in an intermetallic-free starting structure. Powders were subsequently severely plastically deformed via either cryomilling or high-pressure torsion to obtain nanostructured/ultrafine-grained powder or a consolidated specimen, respectively. Characterization via electron microscopy established a map of the powder microstructure as a function of atomization cooling rate. In addition, electron backscatter diffraction revealed a large number of low-angle grain boundaries, which influenced nucleation and precipitation of the metastable Al6Fe phase. X-ray diffraction and atom probe tomography results provide the most comprehensive evidence to date of forcing of 2at.% Fe into solution with the Al matrix via cryomilling. With respect to the powder, a differential scanning calorimetry and activation energy analysis elucidated the formation and phase transformation temperatures of the relevant intermetallic phases, and the microstructural factors that influenced them. With an understanding of the fundamental science behind the intermetallic formation in the Al-Fe system, the composition of helium atomized Al-2at.% Fe was chosen combined with high-pressure torsion processing to yield a bulk alloy that demonstrated an ultimate tensile strength of 488 MPa. This strength was achieved via a combination of two mechanisms: grain refinement (Hall-Petch) and dislocation-Al6Fe interactions (Orowan strengthening), with notable thermal stability present up until 450°C. Finally, the potential for Al-Fe as a sustainable alloy was studied and a link established between current environmental literature and metallurgy literature on the potential for incorporation of Fe into Al to create a structural alloy.

Phonon and thermodynamical properties of CuSc: A DFT study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, Ekta; Pagare, Gitanjali; Dubey, Shubha; Sanyal, S. P.

2018-05-01

A detailed systematic theoretical investigation of phonon and thermodynamical behavior of CuSc intermetallic compound has been carried out by uing first-principles density functional theory in B2-type (CsCl) crystal structure. Phonon dispersion curve and phonon density of states (PhDOS) are studied which confirm the stability of CuSc intermetallic compound in B2 phase. It is found that PhDOS at high frequencies mostly composed of Sc states. We have also presented some temperature dependent properties such as entropy, free energy, heat capacity, internal energy and thermal displacement, which are computed under PHONON code. The various features of these quantities are discussed in detail. From these results we demonstrate that the particular intermetallic have better ductility and larger thermal expansion.

Microstructural and Phase Composition Differences Across the Interfaces in Al/Ti/Al Explosively Welded Clads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fronczek, Dagmara Malgorzata; Chulist, Robert; Litynska-Dobrzynska, Lidia; Lopez, Gabriel Alejandro; Wierzbicka-Miernik, Anna; Schell, Norbert; Szulc, Zygmunt; Wojewoda-Budka, Joanna

2017-09-01

The microstructure and phase composition of Al/Ti/Al interfaces with respect to their localization were investigated. An aluminum-flyer plate exhibited finer grains located close to the upper interface than those present within the aluminum-base plate. The same tendency, but with a higher number of twins, was observed for titanium. Good quality bonding with a wavy shape and four intermetallic phases, namely, TiAl3, TiAl, TiAl2, and Ti3Al, was only obtained at the interface closer to the explosive material. The other interface was planar with three intermetallic compounds, excluding the metastable TiAl2 phase. As a result of a 100-hour annealing at 903 K (630 °C), an Al/TiAl3/Ti/TiAl3/Al sandwich was manufactured, formed with single crystalline Al layers. A substantial difference between the intermetallic layer thicknesses was measured, with 235.3 and 167.4 µm obtained for the layers corresponding to the upper and lower interfaces, respectively. An examination by transmission electron microscopy of a thin foil taken from the interface area after a 1-hour annealing at 825 K (552 °C) showed a mixture of randomly located TiAl3 grains within the aluminum. Finally, the hardness results were correlated with the microstructural changes across the samples.

Microstructure and Tribological Properties of Mo–40Ni–13Si Multiphase Intermetallic Alloy

PubMed Central

Song, Chunyan; Wang, Shuhuan; Gui, Yongliang; Cheng, Zihao; Ni, Guolong

2016-01-01

Intermetallic compounds are increasingly being expected to be utilized in tribological environments, but to date their implementation is hindered by insufficient ductility at low and medium temperatures. This paper presents a novel multiphase intermetallic alloy with the chemical composition of Mo–40Ni–13Si (at %). Microstructure characterization reveals that a certain amount of ductile Mo phases formed during the solidification process of a ternary Mo–Ni–Si molten alloy, which is beneficial to the improvement of ductility of intermetallic alloys. Tribological properties of the designed alloy—including wear resistance, friction coefficient, and metallic tribological compatibility—were evaluated under dry sliding wear test conditions at room temperature. Results suggest that the multiphase alloy possesses an excellent tribological property, which is attributed to unique microstructural features and thereby a good combination in hardness and ductility. The corresponding wear mechanism is explained by observing the worn surface, subsurface, and wear debris of the alloy, which was found to be soft abrasive wear. PMID:28774106

Strong, ductile, and thermally stable Cu-based metal-intermetallic nanostructured composites.

PubMed

Dusoe, Keith J; Vijayan, Sriram; Bissell, Thomas R; Chen, Jie; Morley, Jack E; Valencia, Leopolodo; Dongare, Avinash M; Aindow, Mark; Lee, Seok-Woo

2017-01-09

Bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) and nanocrystalline metals (NMs) have been extensively investigated due to their superior strengths and elastic limits. Despite these excellent mechanical properties, low ductility at room temperature and poor microstructural stability at elevated temperatures often limit their practical applications. Thus, there is a need for a metallic material system that can overcome these performance limits of BMGs and NMs. Here, we present novel Cu-based metal-intermetallic nanostructured composites (MINCs), which exhibit high ultimate compressive strengths (over 2 GPa), high compressive failure strain (over 20%), and superior microstructural stability even at temperatures above the glass transition temperature of Cu-based BMGs. Rapid solidification produces a unique ultra-fine microstructure that contains a large volume fraction of Cu 5 Zr superlattice intermetallic compound; this contributes to the high strength and superior thermal stability. Mechanical and microstructural characterizations reveal that substantial accumulation of phase boundary sliding at metal/intermetallic interfaces accounts for the extensive ductility observed.

Microstructure and Tribological Properties of Mo-40Ni-13Si Multiphase Intermetallic Alloy.

PubMed

Song, Chunyan; Wang, Shuhuan; Gui, Yongliang; Cheng, Zihao; Ni, Guolong

2016-12-06

Intermetallic compounds are increasingly being expected to be utilized in tribological environments, but to date their implementation is hindered by insufficient ductility at low and medium temperatures. This paper presents a novel multiphase intermetallic alloy with the chemical composition of Mo-40Ni-13Si (at %). Microstructure characterization reveals that a certain amount of ductile Mo phases formed during the solidification process of a ternary Mo-Ni-Si molten alloy, which is beneficial to the improvement of ductility of intermetallic alloys. Tribological properties of the designed alloy-including wear resistance, friction coefficient, and metallic tribological compatibility-were evaluated under dry sliding wear test conditions at room temperature. Results suggest that the multiphase alloy possesses an excellent tribological property, which is attributed to unique microstructural features and thereby a good combination in hardness and ductility. The corresponding wear mechanism is explained by observing the worn surface, subsurface, and wear debris of the alloy, which was found to be soft abrasive wear.

Metal-Intermetallic Laminate Ti-Al3Ti Composites Produced by Spark Plasma Sintering of Titanium and Aluminum Foils Enclosed in Titanium Shells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lazurenko, Daria V.; Mali, Vyacheslav I.; Bataev, Ivan A.; Thoemmes, Alexander; Bataev, Anatoly A.; Popelukh, Albert I.; Anisimov, Alexander G.; Belousova, Natalia S.

2015-09-01

Metal-intermetallic laminate composites are considered as promising materials for application in the aerospace industry. In this study, Ti-Al3Ti composites enclosed in titanium cases were produced by reactive spark plasma sintering. Sintering was carried out at 1103 K and 1323 K (830 °C and 1050 °C) for 10 minutes. In both cases, high-quality Ti-Al3Ti composites containing thin transition layers at the interfaces were obtained. Al2Ti, AlTi, and AlTi3 intermetallic phases and a solid solution of aluminum in titanium were observed in the transition layers by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The material sintered at 1323 K (1050 °C) had higher strength in comparison with the composite obtained at 1103 K (830 °C). However, the hardness of the intermetallic component in the sample sintered at higher temperature decreased due to the grain growth. The impact toughness values of both materials were approximately identical.

Large resistivity modulation in mixed-phase metallic systems

DOE PAGES

Lee, Yeonbae; Liu, Z. Q.; Heron, J. T.; ...

2015-01-07

Giant physical responses were discovered, in numerous systems, when two phases coexist; for example, near a phase transition. An intermetallic FeRh system undergoes a first-order antiferromagnetic to ferromagnetic transition above room temperature and shows two-phase coexistence near the transition. We have investigated the effect of an electric field to FeRh/PMN-PT heterostructures and report 8% change in the electrical resistivity of FeRh films. Such a 'giant' electroresistance (GER) response is striking in metallic systems, in which external electric fields are screened, and thus only weakly influence the carrier concentrations and mobilities. We show that our FeRh films comprise coexisting ferromagnetic andmore » antiferromagnetic phases with different resistivities and the origin of the GER effect is the strain-mediated change in their relative proportions. Finally, the observed behaviour is reminiscent of colossal magnetoresistance in perovskite manganites and illustrates the role of mixed-phase coexistence in achieving large changes in physical properties with low-energy external perturbation.« less

Structural stability of super duplex stainless weld metals and its dependence on tungsten and copper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nilsson, J.-O.; Huhtala, T.; Jonsson, P.; Karlsson, L.; Wilson, A.

1996-08-01

Three different superduplex stainless weld metals have been produced using manual metal arc welding under identical welding conditions. The concentration of the alloying elements tungsten and copper corresponded to the concentrations in commercial superduplex stainless steels (SDSS). Aging experiments in the temperature range 700 °C to 1110 °C showed that the formation of intermetallic phase was enhanced in tungsten-rich weld metal and also dissolved at higher temperatures compared with tungsten-poor and tungsten-free weld metals. It could be inferred from time-temperature-transformation (TTT) and continuous-cooling-transformation (CCT) diagrams produced in the present investigation that the critical cooling rate to avoid 1 wt pct of intermetallic phase was 2 times faster for tungsten-rich weld metal. Microanalysis in combination with thermodynamic calculations showed that tungsten was accommodated in χ phase, thereby decreasing the free energy. Experimental evidence supports the view that the formation of intermetallic phase is enhanced in tungsten-rich weld metal, owing to easier nucleation of nonequilibrium χ phase compared with σ phase. The formation of secondary austenite (γ2) during welding was modeled using the thermodynamic computer program Thermo-Calc. Satisfactory agreement between theory and practice was obtained. Thermo-Calc was capable of predicting observed lower concentrations of chromium and nitrogen in γ2 compared with primary austenite. The volume fraction of γ2 was found to be significantly higher in tungsten-rich and tungsten + copper containing weld metal. The results could be explained by a higher driving force for precipitation of γ2 in these.

Interface-related deformation phenomena in intermetallic γ-titanium aluminides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Appel, F.; Wagner, R.

1993-01-01

The development of titanium aluminides towards higher ductility concentrates on Ti-rich alloys which are composed of the intermetallic phases γ(TiAl) and α2(Ti3Al). The two phases form a lamellar microstructure with various types of interfaces. The deformation behaviour of these materials was investigated by compression tests, which were performed for different orientations of the interfacial boundaries with respect to the sample axis. With regard to the mechanical properties the structure of the interfaces and the micromechanisms of deformation were studied by conventional and high resolution electron microscopy. Accordingly, the interfacial boundaries impede the propagation of slip across the lamellae, leading to an athermal contribution to the flow stress.

Fabrication, strength and oxidation of molybdenum-silicon-boron alloys from reaction synthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Middlemas, Michael Robert

Mo-Si-B alloys are a leading candidate for the next generation of jet turbine engine blades and have the potential to raise the operating temperatures by 300-400°C, which would dramatically increase power and efficiency. The alloys of interest are a three-phase mixture of the molybdenum solid solution (Moss) and two intermetallic phases, Mo3Si (A15) and Mo5SiB2 (T2). A novel powder metallurgical method was developed which uses the reaction of molybdenum, silicon nitride (Si3N4) and boron nitride (BN) powders to synthesize a fine dispersion of the intermetallic phases in a Moss matrix. The covalent nitrides are stable in oxidizing environments up to 1000ºC, allowing for fine particle processing without the formation of silicon and boron oxides. The process developed uses standard powder processing techniques to create Mo-Si-B alloys in a less complex and expensive manner than previously demonstrated. The formation of the intermetallic phases was examined by thermo-gravimetric analysis and x-ray diffraction. The start of the reactions to form the T2 and A15 phases were observed at 1140°C and 1193°C and the reactions have been demonstrated to be complete in as little as two hours at 1300°C. This powder metallurgy approach yields a fine dispersion of intermetallics in the Moss matrix, with average grain sizes of 2-4mum. Densities up to 95% of theoretical were attained from pressureless sintering at 1600°C and full theoretical density was achieved by hot-isostatic pressing (HIP). Low temperature sintering and HIPing was attempted to limit grain growth and to reduce the equilibrium silicon concentration in the Moss matrix. Sintering and HIPing at 1300°C reduced the grain sizes of all three phases by over a factor of two. Powder metallurgy provides an opportunity for microstructure control through changes in raw materials and processing parameters. Microstructure examination by electron back-scatter diffraction (EBSD) imaging was used to precisely define the location of all three phases and to measure the volume fractions and grain size distributions. Microstructural quantification techniques including two-point correlation functions were used to quantify microstructural features and correlate the BN powder size and morphology to the distribution of the intermetallic phases. High-temperature tensile tests were conducted and yield strengths of 580MPa at 1100°C and 480MPa at 1200°C were measured for the Mo-2Si-1B wt.% alloy. The yield strength of the Mo-3Si-1B wt.% alloy was 680MPa at 1100°C and 420MPa at 1300°C. A review of the pertinent literature reveals that these are among the highest yield strengths measured for these compositions. The oxidation resistance in air at 1000 and 1100°C was found to be comparable to the best values reported in the literature. The protective borosilicate surface layer was formed quickly due to the close spacing of intermetallic particles and pre-oxidation treatment was developed to further limit the transient oxidation behavior. An oxidation model was developed which factors in the different stages of oxidation to predict compositions which minimize the total metal recession due to oxidation.

Microstructure, Tensile Properties, and Corrosion Behavior of Die-Cast Mg-7Al-1Ca- xSn Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Feng; Dong, Haikuo; Sun, Shijie; Wang, Zhi; Mao, Pingli; Liu, Zheng

2018-02-01

The microstructure, tensile properties, and corrosion behavior of die-cast Mg-7Al-1Ca- xSn ( x = 0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 wt.%) alloys were studied using OM, SEM/EDS, tensile test, weight loss test, and electrochemical test. The experimental results showed that Sn addition effectively refined grains and intermetallic phases and increased the amount of intermetallic phases. Meanwhile, Sn addition to the alloys suppressed the formation of the (Mg,Al)2Ca phase and resulted in the formation of the ternary CaMgSn phase and the binary Mg2Sn phase. The Mg-7Al-1Ca-0.5Sn alloy exhibited best tensile properties at room temperature, while Mg-7Al-1Ca-1.0Sn alloy exhibited best tensile properties at elevated temperature. The corrosion resistance of studied alloys was improved by the Sn addition, and the Mg-7Al-1Ca-0.5Sn alloy presented the best corrosion resistance.

Characterization and Evaluation of Aged Chromium Nickel Niobium Stainless Steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dewar, Matthew

20Cr-32Ni-1Nb stainless steel alloys are commonly used in hydrogen reformer manifolds for transporting hot hydrogen by-products at 750-950°C. After long periods of exposure, embrittling secondary carbides and intermetallic phases can precipitate at the grain boundaries which can drastically reduce the ductility, and the repair weldability of the alloy. The intermetallic silicide, G-phase, is commonly observed in 20Cr-32Ni-1Nb stainless steels, and is prone to liquation cracking during welding operations. G-phase is deleterious to the material, where a high degree of G-phase coarsening will render the material unweldable. The present work will investigate various methods in mitigating G-phase precipitation. Variations in casting methods, wall thickness, homogenization treatments, and alloy chemistry will be examined by evaluating their microstructure after periodically aging the samples. Thermodynamic equilibrium modeling using computational thermodynamic tools will be used to optimize the 20Cr-32Ni-1Nb chemistry following ASTM specifications.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kejun, Z.; Zhanpeng, J.

There are three intermetallic compounds in the Ni{sub 3}Nb, Ni{sub 6}Nb{sub 7}, and Ni{sub 8}Nb. Several attempts have been made to describe the Ni-Nb phase diagram by means of a thermodynamic approach. Kaufman and Nesor modeled the intermetallic compounds as line compounds. The compound Ni{sub 6}Nb{sub 7} was predicted to melt congruently, contrary to experimental data. In the work of Chevalier the homogeneity ranges of the compound phases were not considered, and the calculated (Ni) solvus overestimated the solubility of Nb. Although Ni{sub 6}Nb{sub 7} phase was described with a sublattice model, its nonzero width has not been predicted. Thismore » paper reports that a stoichiometric phase can usually be regarded as composed of two or more sublattices, the sites of each one being occupied by a certain element. If the phase has a small range of homogeneity, different species, which are sufficiently similar in size, shape, electronegativity, etc., may form mixtures on several of the sublattices.« less

Cooling rate dependence of simulated Cu{sub 64.5}Zr{sub 35.5} metallic glass structure

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ryltsev, R. E.; Ural Federal University, 19 Mira Str., 620002 Ekaterinburg; L.D. Landau Institute for Theoretical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 2 Kosygina Str., 119334 Moscow

Using molecular dynamics simulations with embedded atom model potential, we study structural evolution of Cu{sub 64.5}Zr{sub 35.5} alloy during the cooling in a wide range of cooling rates γ ∈ (1.5 ⋅ 10{sup 9}, 10{sup 13}) K/s. Investigating short- and medium-range orders, we show that the structure of Cu{sub 64.5}Zr{sub 35.5} metallic glass essentially depends on cooling rate. In particular, a decrease of the cooling rate leads to an increase of abundances of both the icosahedral-like clusters and Frank-Kasper Z16 polyhedra. The amounts of these clusters in the glassy state drastically increase at the γ{sub min} = 1.5 ⋅ 10{supmore » 9} K/s. Analysing the structure of the glass at γ{sub min}, we observe the formation of nano-sized crystalline grain of Cu{sub 2}Zr intermetallic compound with the structure of Cu{sub 2}Mg Laves phase. The structure of this compound is isomorphous with that for Cu{sub 5}Zr intermetallic compound. Both crystal lattices consist of two types of clusters: Cu-centered 13-atom icosahedral-like cluster and Zr-centered 17-atom Frank-Kasper polyhedron Z16. That suggests the same structural motifs for the metallic glass and intermetallic compounds of Cu–Zr system and explains the drastic increase of the abundances of these clusters observed at γ{sub min}.« less

Characterization of AA2024-T3 by scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schmutz, P.; Frankel, G.S.

1998-07-01

Volta potential mapping of AA2024-T3 on surfaces was performed with an atomic force microscope. A linear relation was found between the Volta potential measured in air and the corrosion potential in aqueous solution for a range of pure metal samples, indicating that this potential is a measurement of the practical nobility of the surface. Large differences in the Volta potential of intermetallic particles in AA2024-T3 and the matrix phase resulted in a potential map with high contrast that clearly identifies the location of the particles. All intermetallic particles, including the Mg-containing S-phase particles, had a Volta potential noble to thatmore » of the matrix. Surface films on the particles and the matrix were found to have strong effects on the potential, and probably explain the noble nature of the Mg-containing particles, which have been reported to be active to the matrix in solution. The effect of these surface films was examined by refreshing the sample surface using different techniques. Lateral heterogeneities in certain intermetallic particles were also revealed.« less

Superconducting compounds and alloys research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Otto, G.

1975-01-01

Resistivity measurements as a function of temperature were performed on alloys of the binary material system In sub(1-x) Bi sub x for x varying between 0 and 1. It was found that for all single-phase alloys (the pure elements, alpha-In, and the three intermetallic compounds) at temperatures sufficiently above the Debye-temperature, the resistivity p can be expressed as p = a sub o T(n), where a sub o and n are composition-dependent constants. The same exponential relationship can also be applied for the sub-system In-In2Bi, when the two phases are in compositional equilibrium. Superconductivity measurements on single and two-phase alloys can be explained with respect to the phase diagram. There occur three superconducting phases (alpha-In, In2Bi, and In5Bi3) with different transition temperatures in the alloying system. The magnitude of the transition temperatures for the various intermetallic phases of In-Bi is such that the disappearance or occurrence of a phase in two component alloys can be demonstrated easily by means of superconductivity measurements.

Effects of Casting Conditions on the Structure and Magnetic Properties of the Co-19 at.%Al-6 at. %W Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazantseva, N. V.; Stepanova, N. N.; Rigmant, M. B.; Davidov, D. I.; Shishkin, D. A.; Romanov, E. P.

The Co-19 at.%Al-6 at.%W alloy was prepared by two methods of casting. We used arc melting under an argon atmosphere with casting into a copper water-cooled casting mold and induction melting furnace with casting into a ceramic Al2O3 mold. According to the X-ray and SEM analyses, phase compositions depend on the cooling rate of the ingot after melting. After arc melting, the cast alloy has a three-phase structure, consisting of γ cobalt (FCC), intermetallic phases CoAl (B2) type, and Co3W (DO19) type. After the induction melting, the alloy has a three-phase structure, consisting of γ cobalt (FCC), intermetallic phases CoAl (B2) type, and Co7W6 (µ) type. All phases in the investigated ternary alloy at the room temperature are ferromagnetic. Curie temperatures of all obtained phases were defined. It is shown that the magnetic properties of the studied alloy are typical for soft magnetic materials.

Experimental partitioning of Zr, Ti, and Nb between silicate liquid and a complex noble metal alloy and the partitioning of Ti between perovskite and platinum metal

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jurewicz, Stephen R.; Jones, John H.

1993-01-01

El Goresy et al.'s observation of Nb, Zr, and Ta in refractory platinum metal nuggets (RPMN's) from Ca-Al-rich inclusions (CAI's) in the Allende meteorite led them to propose that these lithophile elements alloyed in the metallic state with noble metals in the early solar nebula. However, Grossman pointed out that the thermodynamic stability of Zr in the oxide phase is vastly greater than metallic Zr at estimated solar nebula conditions. Jones and Burnett suggested this discrepancy may be explained by the very non-ideal behavior of some lithophile transition elements in noble metal solutions and/or intermetallic compounds. Subsequently, Fegley and Kornacki used thermodynamic data taken from the literature to predict the stability of several of these intermetallic compounds at estimated solar nebula conditions. Palme and Schmitt and Treiman et al. conducted experiments to quantify the partitioning behavior of certain lithophile elements between silicate liquid and Pt-metal. Although their results were somewhat variable, they did suggest that Zr partition coefficients were too small to explain the observed 'percent' levels in some RPMN's. Palme and Schmitt also observed large partition coefficients for Nb and Ta. No intermetallic phases were identified. Following the work of Treiman et al., Jurewicz and Jones performed experiments to examine Zr, Nb, and Ti partitioning near solar nebula conditions. Their results showed that Zr, Nb, and Ti all have an affinity for the platinum metal, with Nb and Ti having a very strong preference for the metal. The intermetallic phases (Zr,Fe)Pt3, (Nb,Fe)Pt3, and (Ti,Fe)Pt3 were identified. Curiously, although both experiments and calculations indicate that Ti should partition strongly into Pt-metal (possibly as TiPt3), no Ti has ever been observed in any RPMN's. Fegley and Kornacki also noticed this discrepancy and hypothesized that the Ti was stabilized in perovskite which is a common phase in Allende CAI's.

Electromigration effect upon the Sn-0.7 wt% Cu/Ni and Sn-3.5 wt% Ag/Ni interfacial reactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Chih-ming; Chen, Sinn-wen

2001-08-01

This study investigates the effect of electromigration upon the interfacial reactions between the promising lead-free solders, Sn-Cu and Sn-Ag, with Ni substrate. Sandwich-type reaction couples, Sn-0.7 wt% Cu/Ni/Sn-0.7 wt% Cu and Sn-3.5 wt% Ag/Ni/Sn-3.5 wt% Ag, were reacted at 160, 180, and 200 °C for various lengths of time with and without the passage of electric currents. Without passage of electric currents through the couples, only one intermetallic compound Ni3Sn4 with ˜7 at. % Cu solubility was found at both interfaces of the Sn-0.7 wt% Cu/Ni couples. With the passage of an electric current of 500 A/cm2 density, the Cu6Sn5 phase was formed at the solder/Ni interface besides the Ni3Sn4 phase. Similar to those without the passage of electric currents, only the Ni3Sn4 phase was found at the Ni/solder interface. Directions of movement of electrons, Sn, and Cu atoms are the same at the solder/Ni interface, and the growth rates of the intermetallic layers were enhanced. At the Ni/solder interface, the electrons flow in the opposite direction of the Sn and Cu movement, and the growth rates of the intermetallic layers were retarded. Only the Ni3Sn4 phase was formed from the Sn-3.5 wt% Ag/Ni interfacial reaction with and without the passage of electric currents. Similar to the Sn-0.7 wt% Cu/Ni system, the movement of electrons enhances or retards the growth rates of the intermetallic layers at the solder/Ni and Ni/solder interfaces, respectively. Calculation results show the apparent effective charge za* decreases in magnitude with raising temperatures, which indicates the electromigration effect becomes insignificant at higher temperatures.

One-pot solvothermal synthesis of ordered intermetallic Pt2In3 as stable and efficient electrocatalyst towards direct alcohol fuel cell application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jana, Rajkumar; Peter, Sebastian C.

2016-10-01

Ordered intermetallic Pt2In3 nanoparticles have been synthesized by superhydride reduction of K2PtCl4 and InCl3.xH2O precursors using facile, one-pot solvothermal method. We report surfactant free solvothermal synthesis of a novel ordered Pt2In3 intermetallic nanoparticles for the first time. The structure and morphology of the catalyst has been confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrometry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The electrocatalytic properties of the catalysts have been investigated by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The as prepared Pt2In3 catalyst exhibit far superior electrocatalytic activity and stability towards alcohol oxidation over commercial Pt/C. The specific activity of as synthesized catalyst was found to be 3.2 and 2.3 times higher than commercial Pt/C for methanol and ethanol oxidation, respectively. This improved activity and durability of the Pt2In3 nanoparticles can make the catalyst an ideal catalyst candidate for direct alcohol fuel cell.

Hf 3 Fe 4 Sn 4 and Hf 9 Fe 4-x Sn 10+x : Two stannide intermetallics with low-dimensional iron sublattices

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Calta, Nicholas P.; Kanatzidis, Mercouri G.

2016-04-01

This article reports two new Hf-rich intermetallics synthesized using Sn flux: Hf 3Fe 4Sn 4 and Hf 9Fe 4-xSn 10+x. Hf 3Fe 4Sn 4 adopts an ordered variant the Hf 3Cu 8 structure type in orthorhombic space group Pnma with unit cell edges of a=8.1143(5) Å, b=8.8466(5) Å, and c=10.6069(6) Å. Hf 9Fe 4-xSn 10+x, on the other hand, adopts a new structure type in Cmc21 with unit cell edges of a=5.6458(3) Å, b=35.796(2) Å, and c=8.88725(9) Å for x=0. It exhibits a small amount of phase width in which Sn substitutes on one of the Fe sites. Both structuresmore » are fully three-dimensional and are characterized by pseudo one- and two-dimensional networks of Fe–Fe homoatomic bonding. Hf 9Fe 4-xSn 10+x exhibits antiferromagnetic order at TN=46(2) K and its electrical transport behavior indicates that it is a normal metal with phonon-dictated resistivity. Hf 3Fe 4Sn 4 is also an antiferromagnet with a rather high ordering temperature of TN=373(5) K. Single crystal resistivity measurements indicate that Hf 3Fe 4Sn 4 behaves as a Fermi liquid at low temperatures, indicating strong electron correlation.« less

Smart Solution Chemistry to Sn-Containing Intermetallic Compounds through a Self-Disproportionation Process.

PubMed

Zhang, Yuelan; Li, Liping; Li, Qi; Fan, Jianming; Zheng, Jing; Li, Guangshe

2016-09-26

Developing new methods to synthesize intermetallics is one of the most critical issues for the discovery and application of multifunctional metal materials; however, the synthesis of Sn-containing intermetallics is challenging. In this work, we demonstrated for the first time that a self-disproportionation-induced in situ process produces cavernous Sn-Cu intermetallics (Cu3 Sn and Cu6 Sn5 ). The successful synthesis is realized by introducing inorganic metal salts (SnCl2 ⋅2 H2 O) to NaOH aqueous solution to form an intermediate product of reductant (Na2 SnO2 ) and by employing steam pressures that enhance the reduction ability. Distinct from the traditional in situ reduction, the current reduction process avoided the uncontrolled phase composition and excessive use of organic regents. An insight into the mechanism was revealed for the Sn-Cu case. Moreover, this method could be extended to other Sn-containing materials (Sn-Co, Sn-Ni). All these intermetallics were attempted in the catalytic effect on thermal decompositions of ammonium perchlorate. It is demonstrated that Cu3 Sn showed an outstanding catalytic performance. The superior property might be primarily originated from the intrinsic chemical compositions and cavernous morphology as well. We supposed that this smart solution reduction methodology reported here would provide a new recognition for the reduction reaction, and its modified strategy may be applied to the synthesis of other metals, intermetallics as well as some unknown materials. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Magnetic properties of Gd intermetallics

DOE PAGES

Petit, Leon; Szotek, Zdzislawa; Jackson, Jerome; ...

2017-04-06

Here, using first-principles calculations, based on disordered local moment theory, combined with the self-interaction corrected local spin density approximation, we study magnetic interactions in GdX intermetallics for X = Cu, Zn, Ga, Cd, and Mg. Our predicted magnetic orders and ordering temperatures both at zero and other pressures agree well with experiments including the large increase in the Curie temperature of GdCd under pressure that is shown by our own experimental measurements. From our results it emerges that the Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida interaction on its own can not explain the observed behaviour under pressure, and that the magnetic ordering mechanism is stronglymore » influenced by the occupations of both Gd and anion d-bands.« less

The effect of annealing on structure and hardness of (Fe-Cr)-50 at.% Al coatings synthesized by mechanical alloying

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciswandi, Aryanto, Didik; Irmaniar, Tjahjono, Arif; Sudiro, Toto

2018-05-01

In this research, the deposition of (Fe-Cr)-50at.% Al coatings on low carbon steel was carried out by a mechanical alloying (MA) technique. The MA was performed in a shaker mill for 4 hours. Two types of Fe-Cr powders as starting material were used, high purity Fe-Cr powders: (Fe-12.5Cr)-50Al and (Fe-25Cr)-50Al, and Fe-Cr lump powder: (50FeCr)-50Al (in at.%). The coated samples were then annealed in a vacuum furnace at 700°C for 1h. The characterizations of coating structure before and after annealing were studied by XRD and SEM-EDX, while the coating hardness was measured by micro-Vickers hardness tester. Before annealing, all of coating composition were composed mainly of (Fe,Cr)Al phase. After annealing, the FeAl and Fe0.99Cr0.02Al0.99 intermetallic phases was formed in the (Fe-12.5Cr)-50Al and (Fe-25Cr)-50Al coatings. In addition, Fe2CrAlwas also found in the (Fe-25Cr)-50Al coating. Whilethe AlCr2 intermetallic phase was detected as the main phase of (50FeCr)-50Al coating. The cross-sectional microstructure showed that the (Fe-12.5Cr)-50Al and (Fe-25Cr)-50Al coatings have a smoother structure compared to (50FeCr)-50Al coating. The annealing led to intermetallic phase formation and an increasing coating hardness.

Characterization of Low-Symmetry Structures from Phase Equilibrium of Fe-Al System—Microstructures and Mechanical Properties

PubMed Central

Matysik, Piotr; Jóźwiak, Stanisław; Czujko, Tomasz

2015-01-01

Fe-Al intermetallic alloys with aluminum content over 60 at% are in the area of the phase equilibrium diagram that is considerably less investigated in comparison to the high-symmetry Fe3Al and FeAl phases. Ambiguous crystallographic information and incoherent data referring to the phase equilibrium diagrams placed in a high-aluminum range have caused confusions and misinformation. Nowadays unequivocal material properties description of FeAl2, Fe2Al5 and FeAl3 intermetallic alloys is still incomplete. In this paper, the influence of aluminum content and processing parameters on phase composition is presented. The occurrence of low-symmetry FeAl2, Fe2Al5 and FeAl3 structures determined by chemical composition and phase transformations was defined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) examinations. These results served to verify diffraction investigations (XRD) and to explain the mechanical properties of cast materials such as: hardness, Young’s modulus and fracture toughness evaluated using the nano-indentation technique. PMID:28787979

First-principles screening of structural properties of intermetallic compounds on martensitic transformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Joohwi; Ikeda, Yuji; Tanaka, Isao

2017-11-01

Martensitic transformation with good structural compatibility between parent and martensitic phases are required for shape memory alloys (SMAs) in terms of functional stability. In this study, first-principles-based materials screening is systematically performed to investigate the intermetallic compounds with the martensitic phases by focusing on energetic and dynamical stabilities as well as structural compatibility with the parent phase. The B2, D03, and L21 crystal structures are considered as the parent phases, and the 2H and 6M structures are considered as the martensitic phases. In total, 3384 binary and 3243 ternary alloys with stoichiometric composition ratios are investigated. It is found that 187 alloys survive after the screening. Some of the surviving alloys are constituted by the chemical elements already widely used in SMAs, but other various metallic elements are also found in the surviving alloys. The energetic stability of the surviving alloys is further analyzed by comparison with the data in Materials Project Database (MPD) to examine the alloys whose martensitic structures may cause further phase separation or transition to the other structures.

Precipitation phases at different processes and heat treat ments as well as their effects on the mechanical properties of super-austenitic stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Hunying; Zhou, Zhangjian; Wang, Man; Li, Shaofu; Zhang, Liwei; Zou, Lei

2013-03-01

A new type lCr30Ni30Mo2TiZr super-austenitic stainless steel has been developed. The microstructures, precipitation phases and mechanical properties of the steel under different deformation processes and heat treatment (solution, stabilized treatment) were investigated using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) as well as mechanical tests. The results indicate that coarse carbides such as Cr-rich M23C6, sigma (σ), and little chi (χ) phases were formed in the steel, and large α' -Cr phases were also detected at three joint grain boundaries, and they were promoted by large strain. The precipitate phases were dissolved or transformed to intermetallic phase even at higher elevated temperature, and influenced the mechanical property obviously. These intermetallic compounds seriously reduced elongation of the rolled steel at room temperature and 700 °C, but increased the forged one at 700 °C. Impact absorbed energies of the stabilized specimens were lower than half of that solution status.

Influence of Processing Techniques on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of a Biodegradable Mg-3Zn-2Ca Alloy

PubMed Central

Doležal, Pavel; Zapletal, Josef; Fintová, Stanislava; Trojanová, Zuzanka; Greger, Miroslav; Roupcová, Pavla; Podrábský, Tomáš

2016-01-01

New Mg-3Zn-2Ca magnesium alloy was prepared using different processing techniques: gravity casting as well as squeeze casting in liquid and semisolid states. Materials were further thermally treated; thermal treatment of the gravity cast alloy was additionally combined with the equal channel angular pressing (ECAP). Alloy processed by the squeeze casting in liquid as well as in semisolid state exhibit improved plasticity; the ECAP processing positively influenced both the tensile and compressive characteristics of the alloy. Applied heat treatment influenced the distribution and chemical composition of present intermetallic phases. Influence of particular processing techniques, heat treatment, and intermetallic phase distribution is thoroughly discussed in relation to mechanical behavior of presented alloys. PMID:28774000

Multi-component intermetallic electrodes for lithium batteries

DOEpatents

Thackeray, Michael M; Trahey, Lynn; Vaughey, John T

2015-03-10

Multi-component intermetallic negative electrodes prepared by electrochemical deposition for non-aqueous lithium cells and batteries are disclosed. More specifically, the invention relates to composite intermetallic electrodes comprising two or more compounds containing metallic or metaloid elements, at least one element of which can react with lithium to form binary, ternary, quaternary or higher order compounds, these compounds being in combination with one or more other metals that are essentially inactive toward lithium and act predominantly, but not necessarily exclusively, to the electronic conductivity of, and as current collection agent for, the electrode. The invention relates more specifically to negative electrode materials that provide an operating potential between 0.05 and 2.0 V vs. metallic lithium.

Influence of phase composition on microstructure and properties of Mg-5Al-0.4Mn-xRE (x = 0, 3 and 5 wt.%) alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Braszczyńska-Malik, K.N., E-mail: kacha@wip.pcz.pl; Grzybowska, A.

2016-05-15

The microstructure and mechanical properties investigations of two AME503 and AME505 experimental alloys in as-cast conditions were presented. The investigated materials were fabricated on the basis of the AM50 commercial magnesium alloy with 3 and 5 wt.% cerium rich mischmetal. In the as-cast condition, both experimental alloys were mainly composed of α-Mg, Al{sub 11}RE{sub 3} and Al{sub 10}RE{sub 2}Mn{sub 7} intermetallic phases. Additionally, due to non-equilibrium solidification conditions, a small amount of α + γ divorced eutectic and Al{sub 2}RE intermetallic phase were revealed. The obtained results also show a significant influence of rare earth elements on Brinell hardness, tensilemore » and compression properties at ambient temperature and especially on creep properties at 473 K. Improved alloy properties with a rise in rare earth elements mass fraction results from an increase in Al{sub 11}RE{sub 3} phase volume fraction and suppression of α + γ eutectic volume fraction in the alloy microstructure. Additionally, the influence of rare earth elements on the dendrite arm space value was discussed. The presented results also proved the thermal stability of the intermetallic phases during creep testing. - Highlights: • Two different Mg-5Al-0.4Mn alloys containing 3 and 5 wt.% of rare earth elements were fabricated. • Addition of rare earth elements leads to a reduction of dendrite arm spaces. • Mechanical properties depend on the phase composition of the alloys. • The increase of the rare earth elements content causes rise of the creep resistance.« less

From Structural Complexity to Structure-Property Relationships in Intermetallics: Development of Density Functional Theory-Chemical Pressure Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Engelkemier, Joshua

The unparalleled structural diversity of intermetallic compounds provides nearly unlimited potential for the discovery and optimization of materials with useful properties, such as thermoelectricity, superconductivity, magnetism, hydrogen storage, superelasticity, and catalysis. This same diversity, however, creates challenges for understanding and controlling the unpredictable structure of intermetallic phases. Moreover, the fundamental design principles that have proven so powerful in molecular chemistry do not have simple analogues for metallic, solid state materials. One of these basic principles is the concept of atomic size effects. Especially in densely packed crystal structures where the need to fill space is in competition with the atoms' preferences for ideal interatomic distances, substitution of one element in a compound for another with similar chemical properties yet different atomic size can have dramatic effects on the ordering of the atoms (which in turn affects the electronic structure, vibrational properties, and materials properties). But because the forces that hold metallic phases together are less easily understood from a local perspective than covalent or ionic interactions in other kinds of materials, it is usually unclear whether the atoms are organized to optimize stabilizing, bonding interactions or rather forced to be close together despite repulsive, steric interactions. This dissertation details the development of a theoretical method, called Density Functional Theory-Chemical Pressure (DFT-CP) analysis, to address this issue. It works by converting the distribution of total energy density from a DFT calculation into a map of chemical pressure through a numerical approximation of the first derivative of energy with respect to voxel volume. The CP distribution is then carefully divided into contact volumes between neighboring atoms, from which it is possible to determine whether atoms are too close together (positive CP) or too far away from each other (negative CP). This technique is used in combination with the concept of structural plasticity (Berns, 2014) to demonstrate how complex intermetallic phases can be understood as a response of simpler structure types to the destabilizing buildup of CP. From this point of view, interfaces created in complex structures relieve the CP manifest in the more basic, parent structures. This is shown specifically for Ca36Sn23 relative to a hypothetical W5Si3-type Ca5Sn3 phase, LnMn xGa3 (Ln = Ho-Tm, x < 0.15) compared to unstuffed AuCu3-type LnGa3 structures, and structural derivatives of CaCu5- and HoCoGa5-type compounds. As a direct result of the technical developments necessitated by these analyses on structural complexity in intermetallics, a further connection is made in this thesis between the calculated CP schemes and the frequencies of vibrational modes in MgCu2-type CaPd2, the Cr 3Si-type superconductor Nb3Ge, and CaCu5-type CaPd5. Local chemical interactions revealed by DFT-CP analysis are used to identify structure-property relationships for the pseudogap in the phonon density of states (DOS) of CaPd2, the higher critical temperature of Nb3Ge vs. Nb3Sn, and the wide diversity of structures based on the CaCu5 type.

Solute segregation and deviation from bulk thermodynamics at nanoscale crystalline defects.

PubMed

Titus, Michael S; Rhein, Robert K; Wells, Peter B; Dodge, Philip C; Viswanathan, Gopal Babu; Mills, Michael J; Van der Ven, Anton; Pollock, Tresa M

2016-12-01

It has long been known that solute segregation at crystalline defects can have profound effects on material properties. Nevertheless, quantifying the extent of solute segregation at nanoscale defects has proven challenging due to experimental limitations. A combined experimental and first-principles approach has been used to study solute segregation at extended intermetallic phases ranging from 4 to 35 atomic layers in thickness. Chemical mapping by both atom probe tomography and high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy demonstrates a markedly different composition for the 4-atomic-layer-thick phase, where segregation has occurred, compared to the approximately 35-atomic-layer-thick bulk phase of the same crystal structure. First-principles predictions of bulk free energies in conjunction with direct atomistic simulations of the intermetallic structure and chemistry demonstrate the breakdown of bulk thermodynamics at nanometer dimensions and highlight the importance of symmetry breaking due to the proximity of interfaces in determining equilibrium properties.

Solute segregation and deviation from bulk thermodynamics at nanoscale crystalline defects

PubMed Central

Titus, Michael S.; Rhein, Robert K.; Wells, Peter B.; Dodge, Philip C.; Viswanathan, Gopal Babu; Mills, Michael J.; Van der Ven, Anton; Pollock, Tresa M.

2016-01-01

It has long been known that solute segregation at crystalline defects can have profound effects on material properties. Nevertheless, quantifying the extent of solute segregation at nanoscale defects has proven challenging due to experimental limitations. A combined experimental and first-principles approach has been used to study solute segregation at extended intermetallic phases ranging from 4 to 35 atomic layers in thickness. Chemical mapping by both atom probe tomography and high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy demonstrates a markedly different composition for the 4–atomic-layer–thick phase, where segregation has occurred, compared to the approximately 35–atomic-layer–thick bulk phase of the same crystal structure. First-principles predictions of bulk free energies in conjunction with direct atomistic simulations of the intermetallic structure and chemistry demonstrate the breakdown of bulk thermodynamics at nanometer dimensions and highlight the importance of symmetry breaking due to the proximity of interfaces in determining equilibrium properties. PMID:28028543

OBSERVATIONS ON RHENIUM-TUNGSTEN ALLOYS (in German)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kirner, K.

1959-12-01

Re-W alloys were arc melted between tungsten electrodes, checked metallographically and their hardness was determined. Two intermetallic phases were found, one of which---a stgroa phase--having a broad homogeneity range (approximately from 40 to 60%) and a high hardness (1800 VPN/sub 300/). (auth)

Investigation of the physical properties of two Laves phase compounds HRh2 (H = Ca and La): A DFT study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahaman, Md. Zahidur; Rahman, Md. Atikur

2018-05-01

By using the first-principle calculations, the structural, elastic, electronic and optical properties of Laves phase intermetallic compounds CaRh2 and LaRh2 prototype with MgCu2 are investigated. The evaluated lattice parameters are consistent with the experimental values. The important elastic properties, such as bulk modulus B, shear modulus G, Young’s modulus Y and the Poisson’s ratio v, are computed by applying the Voigt-Reuss-Hill (VRH) approximation. The analysis of Pugh’s ratio exhibits the ductile nature of both the phases. Electronic conductivity is predicted for both the compounds. Most of the contribution comes from Rh-4d states. The study of bonding characteristics reveals the existence of ionic and metallic bonds in both intermetallics. The study of optical properties indicates that CaRh2 is a better dielectric material than LaRh2. Absorption quality of both the phases is good in the ultraviolet region.

Observation of short range order driven large refrigerant capacity in chemically disordered single phase compound Dy2Ni0.87Si2.95.

PubMed

Pakhira, Santanu; Mazumdar, Chandan; Choudhury, Dibyasree; Ranganathan, R; Giri, S

2018-05-16

In this work, we report the successful synthesis of a new intermetallic compound Dy2Ni0.87Si2.95 forming in single phase only with a chemically disordered structure. The random distribution of Ni/Si and crystal defects create a variation in the local electronic environment between the magnetic Dy ions. In the presence of both disorder and competing exchange interactions driven magnetic frustration, originating due to c/a ∼ 1, the compound undergoes spin freezing behaviour below 5.6 K. In the non-equilibrium state below the spin freezing behaviour, the compound exhibits aging phenomena and magnetic memory effects. In the magnetically short-range ordered region, much above the freezing temperature, an unusual occurrence of considerable magnetic entropy change, -ΔSmaxM ∼ 21 J kg-1 K-1 with large cooling power RCP ∼ 531 J kg-1 and adiabatic temperature change, ΔTad ∼ 10 K for a field change of 70 kOe, is observed for this short range ordered cluster-glass compound without any magnetic hysteresis loss.

Discontinuously reinforced intermetallic matrix composites via XD synthesis. [exothermal dispersion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kumar, K. S.; Whittenberger, J. D.

1992-01-01

A review is given of recent results obtained for discontinuously reinforced intermetallic matrix composites produced using the XD process. Intermetallic matrices investigated include NiAl, multiphase NiAl + Ni2AlTi, CoAl, near-gamma titanium aluminides, and Ll2 trialuminides containing minor amounts of second phase. Such mechanical properties as low and high temperature strength, compressive and tensile creep, elastic modulus, ambient ductility, and fracture toughness are discussed as functions of reinforcement size, shape, and volume fraction. Microstructures before and after deformation are examined and correlated with measured properties. An observation of interest in many of the systems examined is 'dispersion weakening' at high temperatures and high strain rates. This behavior is not specific to the XD process; rather similar observations have been reported in other discontinuous composites. Proposed mechanisms for this behavior are presented.

Methods for manufacturing geometric multi-crystalline cast materials

DOEpatents

Stoddard, Nathan G

2013-11-26

Methods are provided for casting one or more of a semi-conductor, an oxide, and an intermetallic material. With such methods, a cast body of a geometrically ordered multi-crystalline form of the one or more of a semiconductor, an oxide, and an intermetallic material may be formed that is free or substantially free of radially-distributed impurities and defects and having at least two dimensions that are each at least about 10 cm.

Ultrafast synthesis of flower-like ordered Pd3Pb nanocrystals with superior electrocatalytic activities towards oxidation of formic acid and ethanol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jana, Rajkumar; Subbarao, Udumula; Peter, Sebastian C.

2016-01-01

Ordered intermetallic nanocrystals with high surface area are highly promising as efficient catalysts for fuel cell applications because of their unique electrocatalytic properties. The present work discusses about the controlled synthesis of ordered intermetallic Pd3Pb nanocrystals in different morphologies at relatively low temperature for the first time by polyol and hydrothermal methods both in presence and absence of surfactant. Here for the first time we report surfactant free synthesis of ordered flower-like intermetallic Pd3Pb nanocrystals in 10 s. The structural characteristics of the nanocrystals are confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The as synthesized ordered Pd3Pb nanocrystals exhibit far superior electrocatalytic activity and durability towards formic acid and ethanol oxidation over commercially available Pd black (Pd/C). The morphological variation of nanocrystals plays a crucial role in the electrocatalytic oxidation of formic acid and ethanol. Among the catalysts, the flower-like Pd3Pb shows enhanced activity and stability in electrocatalytic formic acid and ethanol oxidation. The current density and mass activity of flower-like Pd3Pb catalyst are higher by 2.5 and 2.4 times than that of Pd/C for the formic acid oxidation and 1.5 times each for ethanol oxidation.

Slater-Pauling behavior within quaternary intermetallic borides of the Ti{sub 3}Co{sub 5}B{sub 2} structure-type

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Burghaus, Jens; Dronskowski, Richard, E-mail: drons@HAL9000.ac.rwth-aachen.d; Miller, Gordon J.

2009-10-15

First-principles, density-functional studies of several intermetallic borides of the general type M{sub 2}M'Ru{sub 5-n}Rh{sub n}B{sub 2} (n=0-5; M=Sc, Ti, Nb; M'=Fe, Co) show that the variation in saturation magnetic moment with valence-electron count follows a Slater-Pauling curve, with a maximum moment occurring typically at 66 valence electrons. The magnetic moments in these compounds occur primarily from the 3d electrons of the magnetically active M' sites, with some contribution from the Ru/Rh sites via magnetic polarization. Electronic DOS curves reveal that a rigid-band approach is a reasonable approximation for the estimation of saturation moments and the analysis of orbital interactions inmore » this family of complex borides. COHP analyses of the M'-M' orbital interactions indicate optimized interactions in the minority spin states for Co-containing phases, but strong bonding interactions remaining in Fe-containing phases. - Graphical abstract: Theoretically determined (spin-polarized LMTO-GGA) local magnetic moments as a function of the chemical valence Z for various intermetallic borides.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Emanuela Barzi et al.1

Nb{sub 3}Sn is the superconductor most used in the R and D of high field accelerator magnets by either the wind and react or the react and wind technique. In order to program the low temperature steps of the heat treatment, the growth kinetics of Cu-Sn intermetallics was investigated as a function of duration and temperature. The diffusion constants of {eta}, {var_epsilon} and {delta} phases between 150 and 550 C were evaluated using Cu-Sn model samples. Statistical and systematic errors were thoroughly evaluated for an accurate data analysis. Next the behavior of Internal Tin and Modified Jelly Roll Nb{sub 3}Snmore » composites was compared with the model predictions.« less

Thermodynamics of Alloys: Studies of Nickel-Gallium, Nickel-Germanium and Nickel-Rhodium Alloys.

DTIC Science & Technology

NICKEL ALLOYS, *GALLIUM ALLOYS, *GERMANIUM ALLOYS, * RHODIUM ALLOYS, *PHASE STUDIES, THERMODYNAMICS, INTERMETALLIC COMPOUNDS, FREE ENERGY, ENTROPY, HEAT OF FORMATION, CRYSTAL STRUCTURE, UNITED KINGDOM.

Lithium-aluminum-iron electrode composition

DOEpatents

Kaun, Thomas D.

1979-01-01

A negative electrode composition is presented for use in a secondary electrochemical cell. The cell also includes an electrolyte with lithium ions such as a molten salt of alkali metal halides or alkaline earth metal halides that can be used in high-temperature cells. The cell's positive electrode contains a a chalcogen or a metal chalcogenide as the active electrode material. The negative electrode composition includes up to 50 atom percent lithium as the active electrode constituent in an alloy of aluminum-iron. Various binary and ternary intermetallic phases of lithium, aluminum and iron are formed. The lithium within the intermetallic phase of Al.sub.5 Fe.sub.2 exhibits increased activity over that of lithium within a lithium-aluminum alloy to provide an increased cell potential of up to about 0.25 volt.

Ab - initio study of rare earth magnesium alloy: TbMg

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumari, Meena; Yadav, Priya; Nautiyal, Shashank; Verma, U. P.

2018-05-01

The structural, electronic and magnetic properties of TbMg were analyzed by using full-potential linearized augmented plane wave method. This intermetallic is stable in structure CsCl (B2 phase) with space group Pm-3m. In electronic properties, we show the electronic band structure and density of states plots. These plots show that this alloy have metallic character because there is no band gap between the valance band and conduction band at Fermi level. The structural properties, i.e. equilibrium lattice constant, bulk modulus and its pressure derivative, energy and volume show good agreement with available data. In this paper, we also present the total magnetic moment along with the magnetic moment on the atomic and interstitial sites of TbMg intermetallic in B2 phase.

Castable high-temperature Ce-modified Al alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rios, Orlando; King, Alexander H.; McCall, Scott K.

2018-05-08

A cast alloy includes aluminum and from about 5 to about 30 weight percent of at least one material selected from the group consisting of cerium, lanthanum, and mischmetal. The cast alloy has a strengthening Al 11X 3 intermetallic phase in an amount in the range of from about 5 to about 30 weight percent, wherein X is at least one of cerium, lanthanum, and mischmetal. The Al 11X 3 intermetallic phase has a microstructure that includes at least one of lath features and rod morphological features. The morphological features have an average thickness of no more than 700 ummore » and an average spacing of no more than 10 um, the microstructure further comprising an eutectic microconstituent that comprises more than about 10 volume percent of the microstructure.« less

Detection of Secondary Phases in UNS S32760 Superduplex Stainless Steel by Destructive and Non-destructive Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Argandona, G.; Biezma, M. V.; Berrueta, J. M.; Berlanga, C.; Ruiz, A.

2016-12-01

Duplex stainless steels (DSS), with a microstructure of an approximately equal mixture of ferrite ( α) and austenite ( γ) phases, are susceptible to the formation of undesirable phases if manufacturing processes are not carefully controlled. In particular, sigma phase (σ) is a Cr- and Mo-rich intermetallic phase, formed generally when DSS are by the temperature range from 600 to 900 °C, even for very short time periods. The precipitation of this phase induces detrimental effects in mechanical and corrosion resistance properties in the material, and even a low volume percentage of σ phase can significantly affect these properties. The current paper presents the effect of thermal treatments on UNS S32760 superduplex stainless steel seamless tubes, applied in order to promote the precipitation of different σ phase percentages in a ferrite/austenite microstructure. The detection and quantification of the σ phase using non-destructive ultrasounds testing has been one of the most relevant events of this study that contributes to improving the correlation of the results obtained using destructive and non-destructive techniques for the quantification of undesirable phases in superduplex seamless tubes during the manufacturing process.

A diffraction based study of the deformation mechanisms in anomalously ductile B2 intermetallics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mulay, Rupalee Prashant

For many decades, the brittle nature of most intermetallic compounds (e.g. NiAl) has been the limiting factor in their practical application. Many B2 (CsCl prototypical structure) intermetallics are known to exhibit slip on the <001>{110} slip mode, which provides only 3 independent slip systems and, hence, is unable to satisfy the von Mises (a.k.a. Taylor) criterion for polycrystalline ductility. As a result, inherent polycrystalline ductility is unexpected. Recent discovery of a number of ductile B2 intermetallics has raised questions about possible violation of the von Mises criterion by these alloys. These ductile intermetallic compounds are MR (metal (M) combined with a rare earth metal or group IV refractory metal (R)) alloys and are stoichiometric, ordered compounds. Single crystal slip trace analyses have only identified the presence of <100>{011} or <100>{010} slip systems. More than 100 other B2 MR compounds are known to exist and many of them have already been shown to be ductile (e.g., CuY, AgY, CuDy, CoZr, CoTi, etc.). Furthermore, these alloys exhibit a large Bauschinger effect. The present work uses several diffraction based techniques including electron back scattered diffraction (EBSD), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and in-situ neutron diffraction; in conjunction with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), mechanical testing, and crystal plasticity modeling, to elucidate the reason for ductility in select B2 alloys, explore the spread of this ductility over the B2 family, and understand the Bauschinger effect in these alloys. Several possible explanations (e.g., slip of <111> dislocations, strong texture, phase transformations and twinning) for the anomalous ductility were explored. An X-ray diffraction based analysis ruled out texture, phase purity and departure from order as explanations for the anomalous ductility in MR alloys. In-situ neutron diffraction and post deformation SEM, EBSD, and TEM were unable to detect any evidence for phase transformations in CoTi and CoZr. Also, post deformation characterization did not reveal any evidence of twinning. However, TEM based g·b analysis and EBSD based in-grain misorientation axis (IGMA) analysis showed that beyond a transition in the strain hardening behavior in CoTi, slip modes involving dislocations with <110> and <111> Burgers vectors are activated. The slip of such dislocations can reduce stress concentrations that could otherwise lead to premature fracture, thus providing a satisfying explanation for the anomalous ductility of CoTi and related compounds, like CoZr. Dislocation self-energy calculations accounting for elastic anisotropy suggest that the choice of slip direction in these alloys is mobility-, rather than source-, limited. The reach of this "ductilizing effect" over B2 alloys was explored by producing, characterizing, and testing a number of simple metal-rare earth metal compounds, namely MgY, MgNd and MgCe. MgR intermetallics with the B2 structure were found to be brittle and exhibit a cleavage type fracture indicating that the ductilizing effect is not as widespread as was initially thought. MgY and MgNd were found to primarily cleave along the {100} planes, while MgCe was found to cleave on the {111} planes. A large Bauschinger effect was observed in several of the anomalously ductile B2 compounds, such that the material actually begins to yield in the reverse direction on unloading. When only the primary slip mode <100>{011} is active in CoZr (prior to a transition in strain hardening), the buildup of intergranular stresses is large and is chiefly responsible for the observed Bauschinger effect. However, past the aforementioned transition in strain hardening, the effect of intergranular stresses diminishes. The results demonstrate that the activation of hard, secondary slip modes causes the internal strains to develop more uniformly among the grains, thus reducing the intergranular stresses which cause the Bauschinger effect. Crystal plasticity modeling, which accounts for the initial paucity of independent slip modes and allows for the activation of complementary hard slip modes, reproduces these trends in the Bauschinger effect and provides additional evidence that the experimental observations have correctly identified the cause of the anomalous ductility.

Amino Acids Aided Sintering for the Formation of Highly Porous FeAl Intermetallic Alloys

PubMed Central

Karczewski, Krzysztof; Stepniowski, Wojciech J.

2017-01-01

Fabrication of metallic foams by sintering metal powders mixed with thermally degradable compounds is of interest for numerous applications. Compounds releasing gaseous nitrogen, minimizing interactions between the formed gases and metallic foam by diluting other combustion products, were applied. Cysteine and phenylalanine, were used as gas releasing agents during the sintering of elemental Fe and Al powders in order to obtain metallic foams. Characterization was carried out by optical microscopy with image analysis, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, and gas permeability tests. Porosity of the foams was up to 42 ± 3% and 46 ± 2% for sintering conducted with 5 wt % cysteine and phenylalanine, respectively. Chemical analyses of the formed foams revealed that the oxygen content was below 0.14 wt % and the carbon content was below 0.3 wt %. Therefore, no brittle phases could be formed that would spoil the mechanical stability of the FeAl intermetallic foams. The gas permeability tests revealed that only the foams formed in the presence of cysteine have enough interconnections between the pores, thanks to the improved air flow through the porous materials. The foams formed with cysteine can be applied as filters and industrial catalysts. PMID:28773106

Microstructures and mechanical properties of nanocrystalline NiTi intermetallics formed by mechanosynthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arunkumar, S.; Kumaravel, P.; Velmurugan, C.; Senthilkumar, V.

2018-01-01

The formulation of nanocrystalline NiTi shape memory alloys has potential effects in mechanical stimulation and medical implantology. The present work elucidates the effect of milling time on the product's structural characteristics, chemical composition, and microhardness for NiTi synthesized by mechanical alloying for different milling durations. Increasing the milling duration led to the formation of a nanocrystalline NiTi intermetallic at a higher level. The formation of nanocrystalline materials was directed through cold fusion, fracturing, and the development of a steady state, which were influenced by the accumulation of strain energy. In the morphological study, uninterrupted cold diffusion and fracturing were visualized using transmission electron microscopy. Particle size analysis revealed that the mean particle size was reduced to 93 μm after 20 h of milling. The mechanical strength was enhanced by the formation of a nanocrystalline intermetallic phase at longer milling time, which was confirmed by the results of Vickers hardness analyses.

A U-bearing composite waste form for electrochemical processing wastes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, X.; Ebert, W. L.; Indacochea, J. E.

Metallic/ceramic composite waste forms are being developed to immobilize combined metallic and oxide waste streams generated during electrochemical recycling of used nuclear fuel. Composites were made for corrosion testing by reacting HT9 steel to represent fuel cladding, Zr and Mo to simulate metallic fuel waste, and a mixture of ZrO2, Nd2O3, and UO2 to represent oxide wastes. More than half of the added UO2 was reduced to metal and formed Fe-Zr-U intermetallics and most of the remaining UO2 and all of the Nd2O3 reacted to form zirconates. Fe-Cr-Mo intermetallics were also formed. Microstructure characterization of the intermetallic and ceramic phasesmore » that were generated and tests conducted to evaluate their corrosion behaviors indicate composite waste forms can accommodate both metallic and oxidized waste streams in durable host phases. (c) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.« less

Spontaneous magnetic order in complex materials: Role of longitudinal spin-orbit interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakraborty, Subrata; Vijay, Amrendra

2017-06-01

We show that the longitudinal spin-orbit interactions (SOI) critically determine the fate of spontaneous magnetic order (SMO) in complex materials. To study the magnetic response of interacting electrons constituting the material, we implement an extension of the Hubbard model that faithfully accounts for the SOI. Next, we use the double-time Green functions of quantum statistical mechanics to obtain the spontaneous magnetization, Msp , and thence ascertain the possibility of SMO. For materials with quenched SOI, in an arbitrary dimension, Msp vanishes at finite temperatures, implying the presence of the disordered (paramagnetic) phase. This is consistent with and goes beyond the Bogolyubov's inequality based analysis in one and two dimensions. In the presence of longitudinal SOI, Msp , for materials in an arbitrary dimension, remains non-zero at finite temperatures, which indicates the existence of the ordered (ferromagnetic) phase. As a plausible experimental evidence of the present SOI-based phenomenology, we discuss, inter alia, a recent experimental study on Y4Mn1-xGa12-yGey, an intermetallic compound, which exhibits a magnetic phase transition (paramagnetic to ferromagnetic) upon tuning the fraction of Ge atoms and thence the vacancies of the magnetic centers in this system. The availability of Ge atoms to form a direct chemical bond with octahedral Mn in this material appears to quench the SOI and, as a consequence, favours the formation of the disordered (paramagnetic) phase.

DOE-EPSCoR. Exchange interactions in epitaxial intermetallic layered systems

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LeClair, Patrick R.; Gary, Mankey J.

2015-05-25

The goal of this research is to develop a fundamental understanding of the exchange interactions in epitaxial intermetallic alloy thin films and multilayers, including films and multilayers of Fe-Pt, Co-Pt and Fe-P-Rh alloys deposited on MgO and Al2O3 substrates. Our prior results have revealed that these materials have a rich variety of ferromagnetic, paramagnetic and antiferromagnetic phases which are sensitive functions of composition, substrate symmetry and layer thickness. Epitaxial antiferromagnetic films of FePt alloys exhibit a different phase diagram than bulk alloys. The antiferromagnetism of these materials has both spin ordering transitions and spin orienting transitions. The objectives include themore » study of exchange-inversion materials and the interface of these materials with ferromagnets. Our aim is to formulate a complete understanding of the magnetic ordering in these materials, as well as developing an understanding of how the spin structure is modified through contact with a ferromagnetic material at the interface. The ultimate goal is to develop the ability to tune the phase diagram of the materials to produce layered structures with tunable magnetic properties. The alloy systems that we will study have a degree of complexity and richness of magnetic phases that requires the use of the advanced tools offered by the DOE-operated national laboratory facilities, such as neutron and x-ray scattering to measure spin ordering, spin orientations, and element-specific magnetic moments. We plan to contribute to DOE’s mission of producing “Materials by Design” with properties determined by alloy composition and crystal structure. We have developed the methods for fabricating and have performed neutron diffraction experiments on some of the most interesting phases, and our work will serve to answer questions raised about the element-specific magnetizations using the magnetic x-ray dichroism techniques and interface magnetism in layered structures using polarized neutron reflectometry. Through application of these techniques to understand the materials fabricated in our laboratory, we will employ a tight feedback loop to tailor the magnetic properties on demand. Developing the ability to control magnetic anisotropy is essential for creating the next generation of magnetic storage media (for hard disks, for example), where individual bit sizes have already become smaller than 100nm in the largest dimension. Still smaller bits and higher storage density will require the ability to exquisitely tailor magnetic media properties at the atomic level, the ultimate goal of our study.« less

Site preference, magnetism and lattice vibrations of intermetallics Lu₂Fe 17–xT x (T=Cr, Mn, Ru)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, Jin-Chun; Qian, Ping, E-mail: qianpinghu@sohu.com; Zhang, Zhen-Feng

We present an atomistic study on the phase stability, site preference and lattice constants of the rare earth intermetallics Lu₂Fe 17–xT x (T=Cr, Mn, Ru). The calculated preferential occupation site of ternary element T is found to be the 4f site. The order of site preference is given as 4f, 12k, 12j and 6g for Lu₂Fe 17–xT x. The calculated lattice parameters are corresponding to the experimental results. We have calculated the magnetic moments of Lu₂Fe 17–xT x compounds. Results show that the calculated total magnetic moment of Lu₂Fe₁₇ compound is M=37.34 μ B/f.u. In addition, the total and partialmore » phonon densities of states are evaluated first for these complicated structures. - Graphical abstract: The vibrational modes are mostly excited by Fe atoms, Lu contributes to the lower frequencies modes, and the contribution of Ru atoms is the same as Fe atoms. Highlights: • There are no reports on lattice vibrations of Lu₂(Fe, T) 17–x (T=Cr, Mn, Ru) compounds. • The phase stability and site preference are evaluated first for the complex structures of Lu₂(Fe, T) 17–x (T=Cr, Mn, Ru) compounds. • The lattice inversion method to obtain the interatomic pair potential is the unique one.« less

Characterization of Aging Behavior in M250 Grade Maraging Steel Using Ultrasonic Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rajkumar, K. V.; Kumar, Anish; Jayakumar, T.; Raj, Baldev; Ray, K. K.

2007-02-01

Ultrasonic measurements have been carried out in M250 grade maraging steel specimens subjected to solution annealing at 1093 K for 1 hour followed by aging at 755 K for various durations in the range of 0.25 to 100 hours. The influence of aging on microstructure, room temperature hardness, and ultrasonic parameters (longitudinal and shear wave velocities and Poisson’s ratio) has been studied in order to derive correlations among these parameters in aged M250 maraging steel. Both hardness and ultrasonic velocities exhibit almost similar behaviors with aging time. They increase with the precipitation of intermetallic phases, Ni3Ti and Fe2Mo, and decrease with the reversion of martensite to austenite. Ultrasonic shear wave velocity is found to be more influenced by the precipitation of intermetallic phases, whereas longitudinal wave velocity is influenced more by the reversion of martensite to austenite. Unlike hardness and ultrasonic velocities, the Poisson’s ratio exhibits a monotonous decrease with aging time and, hence, can be used for unambiguous monitoring of the aging process in M250 maraging steel. Further, none of the parameters, i.e., hardness, ultrasonic velocity, or Poisson’s ratio, alone could identify the initiation of the reversion of austenite at early stage; however, the same could be identified from the correlation between ultrasonic velocity and Poisson’s ratio, indicating the advantage of using the multiparametric approach for comprehensive characterization of complex aging behavior in M250 grade maraging steel.

Characterization of aging-induced microstructural changes in M250 maraging steel using magnetic parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rajkumar, K. V.; Vaidyanathan, S.; Kumar, Anish; Jayakumar, T.; Raj, Baldev; Ray, K. K.

2007-05-01

The best combinations of mechanical properties (yield stress and fracture toughness) of M250 maraging steel is obtained through short-term thermal aging (3-10 h) at 755 K. This is attributed to the microstructure containing precipitation of intermetallic phases in austenite-free low-carbon martensite matrix. Over-aged microstructure, containing reverted austenite degrades the mechanical properties drastically. Hence, it necessitates identification of a suitable non-destructive evaluation (NDE) technique for detecting any reverted austenite unambiguously during aging. The influence of aging on microstructure, room temperature hardness and non-destructive magnetic parameters such as coercivity ( Hc), saturation magnetization ( Ms) and magnetic Barkhausen emission (MBE) RMS peak voltage is studied in order to derive correlations between these parameters in aged M250 maraging steel. Hardness was found to increase with precipitation of intermetallics during initial aging and decrease at longer durations due to austenite reversion. Among the different magnetic parameters studied, MBE RMS peak voltage was found to be very sensitive to austenite reversion (non-magnetic phase) as they decreased drastically up on initiation of austenite reversion. Hence, this parameter can be effectively utilized to detect and quantify the reverted austenite in maraging steel specimen. The present study clearly indicates that the combination of MBE RMS peak voltage and hardness can be used for unambiguous characterization of microstructural features of technological and practical importance (3-10 h of aging duration at 755 K) in M250 grade maraging steel.

The Effects of Sn Addition on the Microstructure and Surface Properties of Laser Deposited Al-Si-Sn Coatings on ASTM A29 Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fatoba, Olawale S.; Akinlabi, Stephen A.; Akinlabi, Esther T.

2018-03-01

Aluminium and its alloys have been successful metal materials used for many applications like commodity roles, automotive and vital structural components in aircrafts. A substantial portion of Al-Fe-Si alloy is also used for manufacturing the packaging foils and sheets for common heat exchanger applications. The present research was aimed at studying the morphology and surface analyses of laser deposited Al-Sn-Si coatings on ASTM A29 steel. These Fe-intermetallic compounds influence the material properties during rapid cooling by laser alloying technique and play a crucial role for the material quality. Thus, it is of considerable technological interest to control the morphology and distribution of these phases in order to eliminate the negative effects on microstructure. A 3 kW continuous wave ytterbium laser system (YLS) attached to a KUKA robot which controls the movement of the alloying process was utilized for the fabrication of the coatings at optimum laser parameters. The fabricated coatings were investigated for its hardness and wear resistance performance. The field emission scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) was used to study the morphology of the fabricated coatings and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) for the identification of the phases present in the coatings. The coatings were free of cracks and pores with homogeneous and refined microstructures. The enhanced hardness and wear resistance performance were attributed to metastable intermetallic compounds formed.

Chemical effect on diffusion in intermetallic compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yi-Ting

With the trend of big data and the Internet of things, we live in a world full of personal electronic devices and small electronic devices. In order to make the devices more powerful, advanced electronic packaging such as wafer level packaging or 3D IC packaging play an important role. Furthermore, ?-bumps, which connect silicon dies together with dimension less than 10 ?m, are crucial parts in advanced packaging. Owing to the dimension of ?-bumps, they transform into intermetallic compound from tin based solder after the liquid state bonding process. Moreover, many new reliability issues will occur in electronic packaging when the bonding materials change; in this case, we no longer have tin based solder joint, instead, we have intermetallic compound ?-bumps. Most of the potential reliability issues in intermetallic compounds are caused by the chemical reactions driven by atomic diffusion in the material; thus, to know the diffusivities of atoms inside a material is significant and can help us to further analyze the reliability issues. However, we are lacking these kinds of data in intermetallic compound because there are some problems if used traditional Darken's analysis. Therefore, we considered Wagner diffusivity in our system to solve the problems and applied the concept of chemical effect on diffusion by taking the advantage that large amount of energy will release when compounds formed. Moreover, by inventing the holes markers made by Focus ion beam (FIB), we can conduct the diffusion experiment and obtain the tracer diffusivities of atoms inside the intermetallic compound. We applied the technique on Ni3Sn4 and Cu3Sn, which are two of the most common materials in electronic packaging, and the tracer diffusivities are measured under several different temperatures; moreover, microstructure of the intermetallic compounds are investigated to ensure the diffusion environment. Additionally, the detail diffusion mechanism was also discussed in aspect of diffusion activation enthalpy and diffusion pre-factor by using lattice structure simulation. Last but not the least, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and First principal calculation simulation were used to observe the electron binding energies in the intermetallic compound and illustrate the partial covalent bonding behavior in the intermetallic compounds.

Structure-Property Relationships in Novel Materials Part I: Frustrated Magnetism and Deintercalation of Honeycomb Oxides Part II: Electron-Precise Gold Intermetallics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seibel, Elizabeth M.

This thesis is a study of the structure-property relationships of novel materials, broken into two major parts. The first part, "Part I: Frustrated Magnetism and Deintercalation of Honeycomb Oxides" explores new, layered nickel oxides and their properties, specifically the synthesis, structure, magnetism, and applications of the Na3Ni 2BiO6-NaNi2BiO6-NaNi2BiO 6•1.7H2O system. These phases are of interest to the solid-state and physics communities because they display frustrated magnetism on a hexagonal lattice. Chapter 3 explores the chemistry and physics of Na 3Ni2BiO6; Chapter 4 then discusses its chemical deintercalation and subsequent hydration to form the NaNi2BiO 6-NaNi2BiO6•1.7H2O system. These phases are examples of sought-after spin-1/2 systems on a hexagonal lattice. The second part of this thesis, "Part II: Electron-Precise Gold Intermetallics" explores novel, electron-precise intermetallics in the Lanthanide-gold-pnictide ternary system. The chemistry of gold-containing solids has not been well-studied despite gold's unusual physics, motivating the study. There are three new families discussed herein. The first, found in Chapter 7, is of the type LnAuSb (Ln = Lanthanide) which are new Dirac semimetals. The work illustrates a chemical design principle that can be used to predict new Dirac Semimetals, which is important given that the field of topological materials is rapidly growing. Chapter 8 discusses materials of the type LnAuBi2, which are layered intermetallics with a high degree of magnetic anisotropy. Finally, Chapter 9 explores new phases of the form Ln 3Au3Bi4. These materials are semiconductors with high Seebeck coefficients at room temperature, indicating their potential for use as thermoelectric materials.

Grained composite materials prepared by combustion synthesis under mechanical pressure

DOEpatents

Dunmead, Stephen D.; Holt, Joseph B.; Kingman, Donald D.; Munir, Zuhair A.

1990-01-01

Dense, finely grained composite materials comprising one or more ceramic phase or phase and one or more metallic and/or intermetallic phase or phases are produced by combustion synthesis. Spherical ceramic grains are homogeneously dispersed within the matrix. Methods are provided, which include the step of applying mechanical pressure during or immediately after ignition, by which the microstructures in the resulting composites can be controllably selected.

The effect of steel chemistry on the formation of Fe-Zn intermetallic compounds of galvanneal-coated steel sheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, C. S.; Meshii, M.

1994-10-01

The effects of steel chemistry on the formation of Fe-Zn intermetallic compounds in the galvanneal coatings have been investigated by examining the microstructure of galvanneal coat-ings on extra-low-carbon (ELC) steel, interstitial-free (IF) steel, and interstitial-free rephos-phorized (IFP) steel. The layer structure of the coatings was revealed by chemical etching. Phases present in each layer were then identified using electron diffraction in transmission elec-tron microscopy (TEM). A two-layer structure, one consisting of the δ phase with a small fraction of the ζ, phase dispersed on the surface and Γ phases and another consisting of the δ and Γ1 phases, was observed in the ELC sample and the IFP sample, respectively. A three-layer structure consisting of the δ, Γ1 + δ, and Γ phases was observed in the IF sample. The presence of C in the steel substrate retarded the alloying between Fe and Zn; while P in the steel favored the formation of the Γ1, phase over the Γ phase by its surface segregation in the steel substrate. The orientation relationship between coating and substrate was also studied by electron diffraction. Three α-Fe/Γ orientation relationships were frequently observed.

Microstructural Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of an Electron Beam-Welded Ti/Cu/Ni Joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Feng; Wang, Ting; Jiang, Siyuan; Zhang, Binggang; Feng, Jicai

2018-04-01

Electron beam welding experiments of TA15 titanium alloy to GH600 nickel superalloy with and without a copper sheet interlayer were carried out. Surface appearance, microstructure and phase constitution of the joint were examined by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction analysis. Mechanical properties of Ti/Ni and Ti/Cu/Ni joint were evaluated based on tensile strength and microhardness tests. The results showed that cracking occurred in Ti/Ni electron beam weldment for the formation of brittle Ni-Ti intermetallics, while a crack-free electron beam-welded Ti/Ni joint can be obtained by using a copper sheet as filler metal. The addition of copper into the weld affected the welding metallurgical process of the electron beam-welded Ti/Ni joint significantly and was helpful for restraining the formation of Ti-Ni intermetallics in Ti/Ni joint. The microstructure of the weld was mainly characterized by a copper-based solid solution and Ti-Cu interfacial intermetallic compounds. Ti-Ni intermetallic compounds were almost entirely suppressed. The hardness of the weld zone was significantly lower than that of Ti/Ni joint, and the tensile strength of the joint can be up to 282 MPa.

Microstructural Characteristics and Mechanical Properties of an Electron Beam-Welded Ti/Cu/Ni Joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Feng; Wang, Ting; Jiang, Siyuan; Zhang, Binggang; Feng, Jicai

2018-05-01

Electron beam welding experiments of TA15 titanium alloy to GH600 nickel superalloy with and without a copper sheet interlayer were carried out. Surface appearance, microstructure and phase constitution of the joint were examined by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction analysis. Mechanical properties of Ti/Ni and Ti/Cu/Ni joint were evaluated based on tensile strength and microhardness tests. The results showed that cracking occurred in Ti/Ni electron beam weldment for the formation of brittle Ni-Ti intermetallics, while a crack-free electron beam-welded Ti/Ni joint can be obtained by using a copper sheet as filler metal. The addition of copper into the weld affected the welding metallurgical process of the electron beam-welded Ti/Ni joint significantly and was helpful for restraining the formation of Ti-Ni intermetallics in Ti/Ni joint. The microstructure of the weld was mainly characterized by a copper-based solid solution and Ti-Cu interfacial intermetallic compounds. Ti-Ni intermetallic compounds were almost entirely suppressed. The hardness of the weld zone was significantly lower than that of Ti/Ni joint, and the tensile strength of the joint can be up to 282 MPa.

On the Nonequilibrium Interface Kinetics of Rapid Coupled Eutectic Growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, H.; Chen, Y. Z.; Shan, G. B.; Zhang, Z. R.; Liu, F.

2017-08-01

Nonequilibrium interface kinetics (NEIK) is expected to play an important role in coupled growth of eutectic alloys, when solidification velocity is high and intermetallic compound or topologically complex phases form in the crystallized product. In order to quantitatively evaluate the effect of NEIK on the rapid coupled eutectic growth, in this work, two nonequilibrium interface kinetic effects, i.e., atom attachment and solute trapping at the solid-liquid interface, were incorporated into the analyses of the coupled eutectic growth under the rapid solidification condition. First, a coupled growth model incorporating the preceding two nonequilibrium kinetic effects was derived. On this basis, an expression of kinetic undercooling (Δ T k), which is used to characterize the NEIK, was defined. The calculations based on the as-derived couple growth model show good agreement with the reported experimental results achieved in rapidly solidified eutectic Al-Sm alloys consisting of a solid solution phase ( α-Al) and an intermetallic compound phase (Al11Sm3). In terms of the definition of Δ T k defined in this work, the role of NEIK in the coupled growth of the Al-Sm eutectic system was analyzed. The results show that with increasing the coupled growth velocity, Δ T k increases continuously, and its ratio to the total undercooling reaches 0.32 at the maximum growth velocity for coupled eutectic growth. Parametric analyses on two key alloy parameters that influence Δ T k, i.e., interface kinetic parameter ( μ i ) and solute distribution coefficient ( k e ), indicate that both μ i and k e influence the NEIK significantly and the decrease of either these two parameters enhances the NEIK effect.

Crystal structures of the new ternary stannides La3Mg4-xSn2+x and LaMg3-xSn2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Solokha, P.; De Negri, S.; Minetti, R.; Proserpio, D. M.; Saccone, A.

2016-01-01

Synthesis and structural characterization of the two new lanthanum-magnesium-stannides La3Mg4-xSn2+x (0.12≤x≤0.40) and LaMg3-xSn2 (0.33≤x≤0.78) are reported. The crystal structures of these intermetallics were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and confirmed by Rietveld refinement of powder X-ray diffraction patterns of the corresponding samples. The La3Mg4-xSn2+x phase crystallizes in the hexagonal Zr3Cu4Si2 structure type (P6bar2m, hP9, Z=3, x=0.12(1), a=7.7974(7), c=4.8384(4) Å), which represents an ordered derivative of the hP9-ZrNiAl prototype, ubiquitous among equiatomic intermetallics. The LaMg3-xSn2 phase is the second representative of the trigonal LaMg3-xGe2 type, which is a superstructure of the LaLi3Sb2 structure type (P3bar1c, hP34-0.12, Z=6, x=0.35(1), a=8.3222(9), c=14.9546(16) Å). The scheme describing the symmetry reduction/coloring with respect to the parent type is reported here with the purpose to discuss the LaMg3-xSn2 off-stoichiometry from the geometrical point of view. Structural relationships between the La-Mg-Sn ternary phases, including the already known equiatomic LaMgSn compound (oP12-TiNiSi), are presented in the framework of the AlB2-related compounds family and discussed with the aid of group-subgroup relations in the Bärnighausen formalism.

The Effect of Cu Powder During Friction Stir Welding on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of AA3003-H18

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abnar, B.; Kazeminezhad, M.; Kokabi, A. H.

2014-08-01

Friction stir welding (FSW) was used to join 3003-H18 non-heat-treatable aluminum alloy plates by adding copper powder. The copper powder was first added to the gap (0.1 and 0.2 mm) between two plates and then the FSW was performed. The specimens were joined at various rotational speeds of 800, 1000, and 1200 rpm at traveling speeds of 70 and 100 mm/min. The effects of rotational speed, second pass of FSW, and direction of second pass also were studied on copper particle distribution and formation of Al-Cu intermetallic compounds in the stir zone. The second pass of FSW was carried out in two ways; in line with the first pass direction (2F) and in the reverse direction of the first pass (FB). The microstructure, mechanical properties, and formation of intermetallic compounds type were investigated. In high copper powder compaction into the gap, large clusters were formed in the stir zone, while fine clusters and sound copper particles distribution were obtained in low powder compaction. The copper particle distribution and amount of Al-Cu intermetallic compounds were increased in the stir zone with increasing the rotational speed and applying the second pass. Al2Cu and AlCu intermetallic phases were formed in the stir zone and consequently the hardness was significantly increased. The copper particles and in situ intermetallic compounds were symmetrically distributed in both advancing and retreating sides of weld zone after FB passes. Thus, the wider area was reinforced by the intermetallic compounds. Also, the tensile test specimens tend to fracture from the coarse copper aggregation at the low rotational speeds. At high rotational speeds, the fracture locations are placed in HAZ and TMAZ.

Temperature and magnetic field induced multiple magnetic transitions in DyAg(2).

PubMed

Arora, Parul; Chattopadhyay, M K; Sharath Chandra, L S; Sharma, V K; Roy, S B

2011-02-09

The magnetic properties of the rare-earth intermetallic compound DyAg(2) are studied in detail with the help of magnetization and heat capacity measurements. It is shown that the multiple magnetic phase transitions can be induced in DyAg(2) both by temperature and magnetic field. The detailed magnetic phase diagram of DyAg(2) is determined experimentally. It was already known that DyAg(2) undergoes an incommensurate to commensurate antiferromagnetic phase transition close to 10 K. The present experimental results highlight the first order nature of this phase transition, and show that this transition can be induced by magnetic field as well. It is further shown that another isothermal magnetic field induced transition or metamagnetic transition exhibited by DyAg(2) at still lower temperatures is also of first order nature. The multiple magnetic phase transitions in DyAg(2) give rise to large peaks in the temperature dependence of the heat capacity below 17 K, which indicates its potential as a magnetic regenerator material for cryocooler related applications. In addition it is found that because of the presence of the temperature and field induced magnetic phase transitions, and because of short range magnetic correlations deep inside the paramagnetic regime, DyAg(2) exhibits a fairly large magnetocaloric effect over a wide temperature window, e.g., between 10 and 60 K.

A Comparison between Growth Morphology of "Eutectic" Cells/Dendrites and Single-Phase Cells/Dendrites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tewari, S. N.; Raj, S. V.; Locci, I. E.

2003-01-01

Directionally solidified (DS) intermetallic and ceramic-based eutectic alloys with an in-situ composite microstructure containing finely distributed, long aspect ratio, fiber, or plate reinforcements are being seriously examined for several advanced aero-propulsion applications. In designing these alloys, additional solutes need to be added to the base eutectic composition in order to improve heir high-temperature strength, and provide for adequate toughness and resistance to environmental degradation. Solute addition, however, promotes instability at the planar liquid-solid interface resulting in the formation of two-phase eutectic "colonies." Because morphology of eutectic colonies is very similar to the single-phase cells and dendrites, the stability analysis of Mullins and Sekerka has been extended to describe their formation. Onset of their formation shows a good agreement with this approach; however, unlike the single-phase cells and dendrites, there is limited examination of their growth speed dependence of spacing, morphology, and spatial distribution. The purpose of this study is to compare the growth speed dependence of the morphology, spacing, and spatial distribution of eutectic cells and dendrites with that for the single-phase cells and dendrites.

Hydrides of intermetallic compounds with a H/M ratio greater than unity obtained at high hydrogen pressures

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Semenenko, K.N.; Klyamkin, S.N.

1993-11-01

Novel hydride phases with H/M > 1 based on Zr{sub 2}Pd, Hf{sub 2}Pd, and Hf{sub 2}Cu (structures of the MoSi{sub 2} type) have been synthesized at high H{sub 2} pressures. The X-ray diffraction investigations of the resulting hydrides have been carried out. Some factors determining the maximum hydrogen content in the hydrides of intermetallic compounds are discussed. A model structure of the hydrides obtained is proposed, which assumes the possibility of direct H-H interactions when the interatomic distances are less than 1 {angstrom}.

Experimental formation enthalpies for intermetallic phases and other inorganic compounds

PubMed Central

Kim, George; Meschel, S. V.; Nash, Philip; Chen, Wei

2017-01-01

The standard enthalpy of formation of a compound is the energy associated with the reaction to form the compound from its component elements. The standard enthalpy of formation is a fundamental thermodynamic property that determines its phase stability, which can be coupled with other thermodynamic data to calculate phase diagrams. Calorimetry provides the only direct method by which the standard enthalpy of formation is experimentally measured. However, the measurement is often a time and energy intensive process. We present a dataset of enthalpies of formation measured by high-temperature calorimetry. The phases measured in this dataset include intermetallic compounds with transition metal and rare-earth elements, metal borides, metal carbides, and metallic silicides. These measurements were collected from over 50 years of calorimetric experiments. The dataset contains 1,276 entries on experimental enthalpy of formation values and structural information. Most of the entries are for binary compounds but ternary and quaternary compounds are being added as they become available. The dataset also contains predictions of enthalpy of formation from first-principles calculations for comparison. PMID:29064466

Reinvestigation of the Cd–Gd phase diagram

PubMed Central

Reichmann, Thomas L.; Ipser, Herbert

2014-01-01

The complete Cd–Gd equilibrium phase diagram was investigated by a combination of powder-XRD, SEM and DTA. All previously reported phases, i.e., CdGd, Cd2Gd, Cd3Gd, Cd45Gd11, Cd58Gd13, and Cd6Gd, could be confirmed. In addition, a new intermetallic compound with a stoichiometric composition corresponding to “Cd8Gd” was found to exist. It was obtained that “Cd8Gd” decomposes peritectically at 465 °C. Homogeneity ranges of all intermetallic compounds were determined at distinct temperatures. In addition, the maximum solubilities of Cd in the low- and high-temperature modifications of Gd were determined precisely as 4.6 and 22.6 at.%, respectively. All invariant reaction temperatures (with the exception of the formation of Cd58Gd13) as well as liquidus temperatures were determined, most probably, Cd58Gd13 is formed in a peritectoid reaction from Cd45Gd11 and Cd6Gd at a temperature below 700 °C. PMID:25544803

Measuring secondary phases in duplex stainless steels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calliari, I.; Brunelli, K.; Dabalà, M.; Ramous, E.

2009-01-01

The use of duplex stainless steels is limited by their susceptibility to the formation of dangerous intermetallic phases resulting in detrimental effects on impact toughness and corrosion resistance. This precipitation and the quantitative determinations of the phases have received considerable attention and different precipitation sequences (σ phase, χ phase, and carbides) have been suggested. This study investigates the phase transformation during continuous cooling and isothermal treatments in commercial duplex stainless steel grades and the effects on alloy properties, and compares the most common techniques of analysis.

Hf{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}Sn{sub 4} and Hf{sub 9}Fe{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 10+x}: Two stannide intermetallics with low-dimensional iron sublattices

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Calta, Nicholas P.; Kanatzidis, Mercouri G., E-mail: m-kanatzidis@northwestern.edu; Materials Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory

This article reports two new Hf-rich intermetallics synthesized using Sn flux: Hf{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}Sn{sub 4} and Hf{sub 9}Fe{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 10+x}. Hf{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}Sn{sub 4} adopts an ordered variant the Hf{sub 3}Cu{sub 8} structure type in orthorhombic space group Pnma with unit cell edges of a=8.1143(5) Å, b=8.8466(5) Å, and c=10.6069(6) Å. Hf{sub 9}Fe{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 10+x}, on the other hand, adopts a new structure type in Cmc2{sub 1} with unit cell edges of a=5.6458(3) Å, b=35.796(2) Å, and c=8.88725(9) Å for x=0. It exhibits a small amount of phase width in which Sn substitutes on one of the Fe sites. Bothmore » structures are fully three-dimensional and are characterized by pseudo one- and two-dimensional networks of Fe–Fe homoatomic bonding. Hf{sub 9}Fe{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 10+x} exhibits antiferromagnetic order at T{sub N}=46(2) K and its electrical transport behavior indicates that it is a normal metal with phonon-dictated resistivity. Hf{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}Sn{sub 4} is also an antiferromagnet with a rather high ordering temperature of T{sub N}=373(5) K. Single crystal resistivity measurements indicate that Hf{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}Sn{sub 4} behaves as a Fermi liquid at low temperatures, indicating strong electron correlation. - Graphical abstract: Slightly different growth conditions in Sn flux produce two new intermetallic compounds: Hf{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}Sn{sub 4} and Hf{sub 9}Fe{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 10+x}. - Highlights: • Single crystals of both Hf{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}Sn{sub 4} and Hf{sub 9}Fe{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 10+x} were grown using Sn flux. • The crystal structures were determined using single crystal X-ray diffraction. • The Fe moments in Hf{sub 3}Fe{sub 4}Sn{sub 4} display AFM order below T{sub N}=373 K. • The Fe moments in Hf{sub 9}Fe{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 10+x} display AFM order below T{sub N}=46 K.« less

High-intensity low energy titanium ion implantation into zirconium alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryabchikov, A. I.; Kashkarov, E. B.; Pushilina, N. S.; Syrtanov, M. S.; Shevelev, A. E.; Korneva, O. S.; Sutygina, A. N.; Lider, A. M.

2018-05-01

This research describes the possibility of ultra-high dose deep titanium ion implantation for surface modification of zirconium alloy Zr-1Nb. The developed method based on repetitively pulsed high intensity low energy titanium ion implantation was used to modify the surface layer. The DC vacuum arc source was used to produce metal plasma. Plasma immersion titanium ions extraction and their ballistic focusing in equipotential space of biased electrode were used to produce high intensity titanium ion beam with the amplitude of 0.5 A at the ion current density 120 and 170 mA/cm2. The solar eclipse effect was used to prevent vacuum arc titanium macroparticles from appearing in the implantation area of Zr sample. Titanium low energy (mean ion energy E = 3 keV) ions were implanted into zirconium alloy with the dose in the range of (5.4-9.56) × 1020 ion/cm2. The effect of ion current density, implantation dose on the phase composition, microstructure and distribution of elements was studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and glow-discharge optical emission spectroscopy, respectively. The results show the appearance of Zr-Ti intermetallic phases of different stoichiometry after Ti implantation. The intermetallic phases are transformed from both Zr0.7Ti0.3 and Zr0.5Ti0.5 to single Zr0.6Ti0.4 phase with the increase in the implantation dose. The changes in phase composition are attributed to Ti dissolution in zirconium lattice accompanied by the lattice distortions and appearance of macrostrains in intermetallic phases. The depth of Ti penetration into the bulk of Zr increases from 6 to 13 μm with the implantation dose. The hardness and wear resistance of the Ti-implanted zirconium alloy were increased by 1.5 and 1.4 times, respectively. The higher current density (170 mA/cm2) leads to the increase in the grain size and surface roughness negatively affecting the tribological properties of the alloy.

Short-range magnetic order, irreversibility and giant magnetoresistance near the triple points in the (x, T) magnetic phase diagram of ZrMn6Sn6-xGax

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazet, T.; Ihou-Mouko, H.; Marêché, J.-F.; Malaman, B.

2010-04-01

We have studied pseudo-layered ZrMn6Sn6-xGax intermetallics (0.55 ≤ x ≤ 0.81) using magnetic, magnetoresistivity and powder neutron diffraction measurements. All the alloys studied have magnetic ordering temperatures in the 450-490 K temperature range. They present complex temperature-dependent partially disordered magnetic structures whose ferromagnetic component develops upon increasing the Ga content. ZrMn6Sn6-xGax alloys with x ≤ 0.69 are essentially collinear antiferromagnets at high-temperature and adopt antifan-like arrangements at low temperature. For x ≥ 0.75, the alloys order ferromagnetically and evolve to a fan-like structure upon cooling. The intermediate compositions (x = 0.71 and 0.73) present a canted fan-like order at high temperature and another kind of antifan-like arrangement at low temperature. The degree of short-range order tends to increase upon approaching the intermediate compositions. The (x, T) phase diagram contains two triple points (x ~ 0.70; T ~ 460 K and x ~ 0.74; T ~ 455 K), where the paramagnetic, an incommensurate and a commensurate phases meet, which possess some of the features of Lifshitz point. Irreversibilities manifest in the low-temperature magnetization curves at the antifan-fan or fan-ferromagnetic boundaries as well as inside the fan region. Giant magnetoresistance is observed, even above room temperature.

Enhancing Friction Stir Weldability of 6061-T6 Al and AZ31B Mg Alloys Assisted by External Non-rotational Shoulder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Shude; Huang, Ruofei; Meng, Xiangchen; Zhang, Liguo; Huang, Yongxian

2017-05-01

In order to increase cooling rate and then reduce the amounts of intermetallic compounds, external non-rotational shoulder tool system derived from traditional tool in friction stir welding was used to join dissimilar Al and Mg alloys. In this study, based on the external non-rotational shoulder, the weldability of Al and Mg alloys was significantly improved. The non-rotational shoulder tool is propitious to make more materials into weld, increase cooling rate and then reduce material adhesion of rotational pin, obtaining sound joint with smaller flashes and smooth surface. Importantly, the thickness of intermetallic compounds layer is reduced compared with traditional tool. Meanwhile, hardness values of dissimilar joint present uneven distribution, resulting from complex intercalated structures in nugget zone (NZ) featured by intermetallic compound layers and fine recrystallized Mg and Al grains. Compared with traditional tool, non-rotational shoulder is beneficial to higher tensile properties of joint. Due to the intermetallic compound layer formed in the interface of Al-Mg, the welding joint easily fractures at the NZ, presenting the typical brittle fracture mode.

Intermetallic Growth and Interfacial Properties of the Grain Refiners in Al Alloys.

PubMed

Li, Chunmei; Cheng, Nanpu; Chen, Zhiqian; Xie, Zhongjing; Hui, Liangliang

2018-04-20

Al₃TM(TM = Ti, Zr, Hf, Sc) particles acting as effective grain refiners for Al alloys have been receiving extensive attention these days. In order to judge their nucleation behaviors, first-principles calculations are used to investigate their intermetallic and interfacial properties. Based on energy analysis, Al₃Zr and Al₃Sc are more suitable for use as grain refiners than the other two intermetallic compounds. Interfacial properties show that Al/Al₃TM(TM = Ti, Zr, Hf, Sc) interfaces in I-ter interfacial mode exhibit better interface wetting effects due to larger Griffith rupture work and a smaller interface energy. Among these, Al/Al₃Sc achieves the lowest interfacial energy, which shows that Sc atoms should get priority for occupying interfacial sites. Additionally, Sc-doped Al/Al₃(Zr, Sc) interfacial properties show that Sc can effectively improve the Al/Al₃(Zr, Sc) binding strength with the Al matrix. By combining the characteristics of interfaces with the properties of intermetallics, the core-shell structure with Al₃Zr-core or Al₃Zr(Sc1-1)-core encircled with an Sc-rich shell forms.

Intermetallic Compound Growth and Stress Development in Al-Cu Diffusion Couple

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishler, M.; Ouvarov-Bancalero, V.; Chae, Seung H.; Nguyen, Luu; Kim, Choong-Un

2018-01-01

This paper reports experimental observations evidencing that the intermetallic compound phase interfaced with Cu in the Al-Cu diffusion couple is most likely α2-Cu3Al phase, not γ-Cu9Al4 phase as previously assumed, and that its growth to a critical thickness may result in interface failure by stress-driven fracture. These conclusions are made based on an interdiffusion study of a diffusion couple made of a thick Cu plate coated with ˜ 2- μm-thick Al thin film. The interface microstructure and lattice parameter were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction analysis. Specimens aged at temperature between 623 K (350°C) and 723 K (450°C) for various hours produced consistent results supporting the main conclusions. It is found that disordered α2-Cu3Al phase grows in a similar manner to solid-state epitaxy, probably owing to its structural similarity to the Cu lattice. The increase in the interface strain that accompanies the α2-Cu3Al phase growth ultimately leads to interface fracture proceeding from crack initiation and growth along the interface. This mechanism provides the most consistent explanation for interface failures observed in other studies.

Sub-4 nm PtZn Intermetallic Nanoparticles for Enhanced Mass and Specific Activities in Catalytic Electrooxidation Reaction

DOE PAGES

Qi, Zhiyuan; Xiao, Chaoxian; Liu, Cong; ...

2017-03-08

Atomically ordered intermetallic nanoparticles (iNPs) have sparked considerable interest in fuel cell applications by virtue of their exceptional electronic and structural properties. However, the synthesis of small iNPs in a controllable manner remains a formidable challenge because of the high temperature generally required in the formation of intermetallic phases. Here in this paper we report a general method for the synthesis of PtZn iNPs (3.2 ± 0.4 nm) on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) via a facile and capping agent free strategy using a sacrificial mesoporous silica (mSiO 2) shell. The as-prepared PtZn iNPs exhibited ca. 10 times higher mass activitymore » in both acidic and basic solution toward the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) compared to larger PtZn iNPs synthesized on MWNT without the mSiO 2 shell. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations predict that PtZn systems go through a “non-CO” pathway for MOR because of the stabilization of the OH* intermediate by Zn atoms, while a pure Pt system forms highly stable COH* and CO* intermediates, leading to catalyst deactivation. Experimental studies on the origin of the backward oxidation peak of MOR coincide well with DFT predictions. Moreover, the calculations demonstrate that MOR on smaller PtZn iNPs is energetically more favorable than larger iNPs, due to their high density of corner sites and lower-lying energetic pathway. Therefore, smaller PtZn iNPs not only increase the number but also enhance the activity of the active sites in MOR compared with larger ones. This work opens a new avenue for the synthesis of small iNPs with more undercoordinated and enhanced active sites for fuel cell applications.« less

Sub-4 nm PtZn Intermetallic Nanoparticles for Enhanced Mass and Specific Activities in Catalytic Electrooxidation Reaction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Qi, Zhiyuan; Xiao, Chaoxian; Liu, Cong

2017-03-22

Atomically ordered intermetallic nanoparticles (iNPs) have sparked considerable interest in fuel cell applications by virtue of their exceptional electronic and structural properties. However, the synthesis of small iNPs in a controllable manner remains a formidable challenge because of the high temperature generally required in the formation of intermetallic phases. Here we report a general method for the synthesis of PtZn. iNPs (3.2 +/- 0.4 nm) on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) via a facile and capping agent free strategy using a sacrificial mesoporous silica (mSiO(2)) shell. The as-prepared PtZn iNPs exhibited ca. 10 times higher mass activity in both acidic andmore » basic solution toward the methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) compared to larger PtZn iNPs synthesized on MWNT without the mSiO2 shell. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations predict that PtZn systems go through a "non-CO" pathway for MOR because of the stabilization of the OH* intermediate by Zn atoms, while a pure Pt system forms highly stable COH* and CO* intermediates, leading to catalyst deactivation. Experimental studies on the origin of the backward oxidation peak of MOR coincide well with DFT predictions. Moreover, the calculations demonstrate that MOR on smaller PtZn iNPs is energetically more favorable than larger iNPs, due to their high density of corner sites and lower-lying energetic pathway. Therefore, smaller PtZn iNPs not only increase the number but also enhance the activity of the active sites in MOR compared with larger ones. This work opens a new avenue for the synthesis of small iNPs with more undercoordinated and enhanced active sites for fuel cell applications.« less

Mechanical properties of Mo-Si-B alloys fabricated by using core-shell powder with dispersion of yttria nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Byun, Jong Min; Bang, Su-Ryong; Choi, Won June; Kim, Min Sang; Noh, Goo Won; Kim, Young Do

2017-01-01

In recent years, refractory materials with excellent high-temperature properties have been in the spotlight as a next generation's high-temperature materials. Among these, Mo-Si-B alloys composed of two intermetallic compound phases (Mo5SiB2 and Mo3Si) and a ductile α-Mo phase have shown an outstanding thermal properties. However, due to the brittleness of the intermetallic compound phases, Mo-Si-B alloys were restricted to apply for the structural materials. So, to enhance the mechanical properties of Mo-Si-B alloys, many efforts to add rare-earth oxide particles in the Mo-Si-B alloy were performed to induce the improvement of strength and fracture toughness. In this study, to investigate the effect of adding nano-sized Y2O3 particles in Mo-Si-B alloy, a core-shell powder consisting of intermetallic compound phases as the core and nano-sized α-Mo and Y2O3 particles surrounding the core was fabricated. Then pressureless sintering was carried out at 1400 °C for 3 h, and the mechanical properties of sintered bodies with different amounts of Y2O3 particles were evaluated by Vickers hardness and 3-point bending test. Vickers hardness was improved by dispersed Y2O3 particles in the Mo-Si-B alloy. Especially, Mo-3Si-1B-1.5Y2O3 alloy had the highest value, 589 Hv. The fracture toughness was measured using Mo-3Si-1B-1.5Y2O3 alloy and the value indicated as 13.5 MPa·√m.

The Influence of Grain Structure on Intermetallic Compound Layer Growth Rates in Fe-Al Dissimilar Welds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Lei; Robson, Joseph D.; Wang, Li; Prangnell, Philip B.

2018-02-01

The thickness of the intermetallic compound (IMC) layer that forms when aluminum is welded to steel is critical in determining the properties of the dissimilar joints. The IMC reaction layer typically consists of two phases ( η and θ) and many attempts have been made to determine the apparent activation energy for its growth, an essential parameter in developing any predictive model for layer thickness. However, even with alloys of similar composition, there is no agreement of the correct value of this activation energy. In the present work, the IMC layer growth has been characterized in detail for AA6111 aluminum to DC04 steel couples under isothermal annealing conditions. The samples were initially lightly ultrasonically welded to produce a metallic bond, and the structure and thickness of the layer were then characterized in detail, including tracking the evolution of composition and grain size in the IMC phases. A model developed previously for Al-Mg dissimilar welds was adapted to predict the coupled growth of the two phases in the layer, whilst accounting explicitly for grain boundary and lattice diffusion, and considering the influence of grain growth. It has been shown that the intermetallic layer has a submicron grain size, and grain boundary diffusion as well as grain growth plays a critical role in determining the thickening rate for both phases. The model was used to demonstrate how this explains the wide scatter in the apparent activation energies previously reported. From this, process maps were developed that show the relative importance of each diffusion path to layer growth as a function of temperature and time.

The evolution of γ-Mg17Al12 intermetallic compound during accumulative back extrusion and subsequent ageing treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maghsoudi, M. H.; Zarei-Hanzaki, A.; Abedi, H. R.; Shamsolhodaei, A.

2015-11-01

Accumulative back extrusion (ABE) processing, as a novel severe plastic deformation (SPD) method, has been recently justified to be capable of modifying the microstructural characteristics of alloys. In line to its ongoing researches, the present work has been planned to study the evolution of γ-Mg17Al12 intermetallic phase during ABE and subsequent ageing treatment in a high Al-bearing Mg-Al-Zn alloy. The behaviour of γ intermetallic has been systematically examined as following points of view: (i) strain-temperature-dependent morphology changes, (ii) strain-induced dissolution, and (iii) re-ageing behaviour as a function of time and temperature. Aiming to analyse the morphology of eutectic γ compound with respect to the strain and temperature, 2D projections of effective diameter, shape factor and globularity have been made in strain/temperature graphs. The processing conditions (strain and temperature) corresponding to the desired and undesired morphologies are introduced and microstructurally explained through underlying plasticity mechanisms, i.e., 'necking-thinning-particle separation' and 'brittle fragmentation.' The former mechanism is suggested to be in relation with partial strain-induced dissolution of eutectic γ phase, leading to generation of a supersaturated solid solution. This has resulted to the observation of 'off-stoichiometry' phenomena in Mg17Al12 phase and has been justified through dislocation-assisted deformation mechanism at elevated temperature. Surprisingly, a unique re-ageing behaviour has been found for the obtained solid solutions, where a modified kinetics and morphology of γ phase precipitation were characterized. The altered precipitation behaviour is attributed to the specific defect structure achieved by SPD acting as fast diffusion channel for Al solutes.

Mashing up metals with carbothermal shock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skrabalak, Sara E.

2018-03-01

Different materials and the capabilities they enabled have marked the ages of civilization. For example, the malleable copper alloys of the Bronze Age provided harder and more durable tools. Most exploration of new alloys has focused on random alloys, in which the alloying metal sites have no metal preference. In binary and ternary metal systems, dissimilar elements do not mix readily at high concentrations, which has limited alloying studies to intermetallics (ordered multimetallic phases) and random alloys, in which minor components are added to a principal element. In 2004, crystalline metal alloys consisting of five or more principal elements in equal or nearly equal amounts (1, 2) were reported that were stabilized by their high configurational entropy. Unlike most random alloys, the “high-entropy” alloys (3, 4) reside in the centers of their multidimensional phase diagrams (see the figure, right). On page 1489 of this issue, Yao et al. (5) present an innovative and general route to high-entropy alloys that can mix up to eight elements into single-phase, size-controlled nanoparticles (NPs).

PHYSICOCHEMICAL INTERACTION OF MANGANESE WITH NIOBIUM (in Russian)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Savitskii, E.M.; Kopetskii, Ch.V.

1960-03-01

Microstructural, x-ray phase, and thermal analyses as well as hardness and microhardness determinations were performed on different manganese alloys containing 2.26, with a small Nb content have a two-phase structure characteristic of a eutectic. With increasing Nb content, an increasing amount of an intermetallic compound is formed. With a 2.98 wt.% Nb alloy interference lines of only alpha -Mn with a lattice parameter a = 8.892 kX in the annealed state or of ore resistant t -Mn with a lattice parameter a = 6.290 kX in the molten state can be detected by x-ray analysis. With 5.64 wt.% Nb, linesmore » of a new phase can be detected whose intensities increase with increasing Nb content. This new phase is an intermetallic compound Mn/sub 2/Nb Laves phase with a structure of the MgZn/sub 2/ type. The lattice parameters of the Mn/sub 2/Nb phase are: a = 4.881 kX, c = 7.953 kX, c/a = 1.629. With increasing niobium content the hardness values fall from 900 to 950 hg/mm/sup 2/ for pure manganese to 650 to 700 kg/mm/sup 2/ for the 29.85 wt.% niobium alloy. The hardness of the intermetallic compound is less than the hardness of the alpha -Mn. Thermal analysis showed that additions of niobium to manganese significantly increased the temperature of the alpha = ore resistant t transition which is shifted from 727 tained C for pure manganese to 800 tained C for the alloys. A ore resistant t transition takes place at 1135 tained C by a peritectic reaction. Fusion of a eutectic mixture of -Mn and Mn/sub 2/ Nb occurs at 1220 tained C. The intermetallic compound MnNb melts at 1500 tained C. A phase diagram for the Mn-Nb system is constructed on the basis of these resuits. (TTT) Iodide-derived titanium (99.97%) and neodymium (99.8%) were fused in an electric arc furnace in a helium atmosphere to prepare nine alloys with a necdymium content of 0 to 10%. Smelted and forged samples were annealed in evacuated quartz ampoules for 25 hours at 1000 tained C and 100 hours at 850 tained C. Samples of alloys were quenched in water from temperatures of 600, 800, 850, 890, 920, 1000, and 1100 tained C to determine the state of the system at higher temperatures. Microscopic analyses of phases showed that addition of neodymium stabilizes the alpha -phase. The microhardness of the phase is about 70 kg/mm/sup 2/. Apparently, no intermetallic compounds are formed in the Ti-Nd system. The limiting saturation of the alpha -solid solution at 600 tained C is 1.8 wt.% Nd, as determined from microhardness values on quenched samples of variable neodymium composition. The solubility of neodymium is somewhat greater than the solubility of lanthanum and cerium in alpha -titunium because of the lanthanide contraction. Brinnell hardness values, yield strength, elongation, and reduction in cross- section area were also determined at room temperature. Neodymium is more effective than lanthanum or cerium in increasing the handness and strength of titanium. Small additions of Nd(0.5%) decrease the plasticity slightly. The addition of 1.2 wt.% Ce increases the yield strength of titanium from 32 to 38 to 40 hg/mm/sup 2/, while the same amount of neodymium increases the yield strength to 48 to 50 kg/mm/sup 2/. The strength of Ti-Nd alloys continues to increase even with the appearance of a second phase in the alloy, while in the TiLa and Ti- Ce systems a decrease in strength and a sharp drop in plasticity occurs upon the appearance of a second phase. The solubility of neodymium in alpha -titanium varies considerably with temperature. Hence, a noticeable aging effect can be expected, but this must be confirmed by experiment. (TTT)« less

Short-range order of undercooled melts of PdZr2 intermetallic compound studied by X-ray and neutron scattering experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klein, S.; Holland-Moritz, D.; Herlach, D. M.; Mauro, N. A.; Kelton, K. F.

2013-05-01

The short-range order in undercooled melts of the intermetallic Zr2Pd glass-forming alloy is investigated by combining electrostatic levitation (ESL) with high-energy X-ray diffraction and neutron diffraction. Experimentally determined structure factors are measured and analyzed with respect to various structures of short-range order. The comparative X-ray and neutron scattering experiments allow for investigations of topological and chemical short-range order. Based on these studies, no preference of a specific short-range order is found for the liquid Zr2Pd glass-forming alloy, even in the metastable state of the deeply undercooled melt. This is in agreement with an earlier report from X-ray diffraction and molecular-dynamics studies of a Zr75.5Pd24.5 liquid, which showed a broad distribution of cluster types. The results for the Zr2Pd liquid are discussed with respect to the glass-forming ability of this melt.

Discovery of Intermetallic Compounds from Traditional to Machine-Learning Approaches.

PubMed

Oliynyk, Anton O; Mar, Arthur

2018-01-16

Intermetallic compounds are bestowed by diverse compositions, complex structures, and useful properties for many materials applications. How metallic elements react to form these compounds and what structures they adopt remain challenging questions that defy predictability. Traditional approaches offer some rational strategies to prepare specific classes of intermetallics, such as targeting members within a modular homologous series, manipulating building blocks to assemble new structures, and filling interstitial sites to create stuffed variants. Because these strategies rely on precedent, they cannot foresee surprising results, by definition. Exploratory synthesis, whether through systematic phase diagram investigations or serendipity, is still essential for expanding our knowledge base. Eventually, the relationships may become too complex for the pattern recognition skills to be reliably or practically performed by humans. Complementing these traditional approaches, new machine-learning approaches may be a viable alternative for materials discovery, not only among intermetallics but also more generally to other chemical compounds. In this Account, we survey our own efforts to discover new intermetallic compounds, encompassing gallides, germanides, phosphides, arsenides, and others. We apply various machine-learning methods (such as support vector machine and random forest algorithms) to confront two significant questions in solid state chemistry. First, what crystal structures are adopted by a compound given an arbitrary composition? Initial efforts have focused on binary equiatomic phases AB, ternary equiatomic phases ABC, and full Heusler phases AB 2 C. Our analysis emphasizes the use of real experimental data and places special value on confirming predictions through experiment. Chemical descriptors are carefully chosen through a rigorous procedure called cluster resolution feature selection. Predictions for crystal structures are quantified by evaluating probabilities. Major results include the discovery of RhCd, the first new binary AB compound to be found in over 15 years, with a CsCl-type structure; the connection between "ambiguous" prediction probabilities and the phenomenon of polymorphism, as illustrated in the case of TiFeP (with TiNiSi- and ZrNiAl-type structures); and the preparation of new predicted Heusler phases MRu 2 Ga and RuM 2 Ga (M = first-row transition metal) that are not obvious candidates. Second, how can the search for materials with desired properties be accelerated? One particular application of strong current interest is thermoelectric materials, which present a particular challenge because their optimum performance depends on achieving a balance of many interrelated physical properties. Making use of a recommendation engine developed by Citrine Informatics, we have identified new candidates for thermoelectric materials, including previously unknown compounds (e.g., TiRu 2 Ga with Heusler structure; Mn(Ru 0.4 Ge 0.6 ) with CsCl-type structure) and previously reported compounds but counterintuitive candidates (e.g., Gd 12 Co 5 Bi). An important lesson in these investigations is that the machine-learning models are only as good as the experimental data used to develop them. Thus, experimental work will continue to be necessary to improve the predictions made by machine learning.

Microstructure of arc brazed and diffusion bonded joints of stainless steel and SiC reinforced aluminum matrix composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elßner, M.; Weis, S.; Grund, T.; Wagner, G.; Habisch, S.; Mayr, P.

2016-03-01

Joint interfaces of aluminum and stainless steel often exhibit intermetallics of Al-Fe, which limit the joint strength. In order to reduce these brittle phases in joints of aluminum matrix composites (AMC) and stainless steel, diffusion bonding and arc brazing are used. Due to the absence of a liquid phase, diffusion welding can reduce the formation of these critical in- termetallics. For this joining technique, the influence of surface treatments and adjusted time- temperature-surface-pressure-regimes is investigated. On the other hand, arc brazing offers the advantage to combine a localized heat input with the application of a low melting filler and was conducted using the system Al-Ag-Cu. Results of the joining tests using both approaches are described and discussed with regard to the microstructure of the joints and the interfaces.

Bulk and surface properties of liquid Al-Cr and Cr-Ni alloys.

PubMed

Novakovic, R

2011-06-15

The energetics of mixing and structural arrangement in liquid Al-Cr and Cr-Ni alloys has been analysed through the study of surface properties (surface tension and surface segregation), dynamic properties (chemical diffusion) and microscopic functions (concentration fluctuations in the long-wavelength limit and chemical short-range order parameter) in the framework of statistical mechanical theory in conjunction with quasi-lattice theory. The Al-Cr phase diagram exhibits the existence of different intermetallic compounds in the solid state, while that of Cr-Ni is a simple eutectic-type phase diagram at high temperatures and includes the low-temperature peritectoid reaction in the range near a CrNi(2) composition. Accordingly, the mixing behaviour in Al-Cr and Cr-Ni alloy melts was studied using the complex formation model in the weak interaction approximation and by postulating Al(8)Cr(5) and CrNi(2) chemical complexes, respectively, as energetically favoured.

High temperature dispersion strengthening of NiAl

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sherman, M.; Vedula, K.

1986-01-01

A potential high temperature strengthening mechanism for alloys based on the intermetallic compound NiAl was investigated. This study forms part of an overall program at NASA Lewis Research Center for exploring the potential of alloys based on NiAl for high temperature applications. An alloy containing 2.26 at% Nb and produced by hot extrusion of blended powders was examined in detail using optical and electron microscopy. Interdiffusion between the blended Nb and NiAl powders results in the formation of intermediate phases. A fine dispersion of precipitates of a hexagonal, ordered NiAlNb phases in a matrix of NiAl can be produced and this results in strengthening of the alloy by interfering with dislocation motion at high temperature. These precipitates are, however, found to coarsen during the high temperature (1300 K) deformation at slow strain rates and this may impose some limitatioins on the use of this strengthening mechanism.

Modeling of Substitutional Site Preference in Ordered Intermetallic Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bozzolo, Guillermo; Noebe, Ronald D.; Honecy, Frank

1998-01-01

We investigate the site substitution scheme of specific alloying elements in ordered compounds and the dependence of site occupancy on compound stoichiometry, alloy concentration. This basic knowledge, and the interactions with other alloying additions are necessary in order to predict and understand the effect of various alloying schemes on the physical properties of a material, its response to various temperature treatments, and the resulting mechanical properties. Many theoretical methods can provide useful but limited insight in this area, since most techniques suffer from constraints in the type of elements and the crystallographic structures that can be modeled. With this in mind, the Bozzolo-Ferrante-Smith (BFS) method for alloys was designed to overcome these limitations, with the intent of providing an useful tool for the theoretical prediction of fundamental properties and structure of complex systems. After a brief description of the BFS method, its use for the determination of site substitution schemes for individual as well as collective alloying additions to intermetallic systems is described, including results for the concentration dependence of the lattice parameter. Focusing on B2 NiAl, FeAl and CoAl alloys, the energetics of Si, Ti, V, Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ru, Hf, Ta and W alloying additions are surveyed. The effect of single additions as well as the result of two simultaneous additions, discussing the interaction between additions and their influence on site preference schemes is considered. Finally, the BFS analysis is extended to ternary L1(sub 2) (Heusler phase) alloys. A comparison between experimental and theoretical results for the limited number of cases for which experimental data is available is also included.

Quantum many-body intermetallics: Phase stability of Fe3Al and small-gap formation in Fe2VAl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kristanovski, Oleg; Richter, Raphael; Krivenko, Igor; Lichtenstein, Alexander I.; Lechermann, Frank

2017-01-01

Various intermetallic compounds harbor subtle electronic correlation effects. To elucidate this fact for the Fe-Al system, we perform a realistic many-body investigation based on a combination of density functional theory with dynamical mean-field theory in a charge self-consistent manner. A better characterization and understanding of the phase stability of bcc-based D 03-Fe3Al through an improved description of the correlated charge density and the magnetic energy is achieved. Upon replacement of one Fe sublattice with V, the Heusler compound Fe2VAl is realized, known to display bad-metal behavior and increased specific heat. Here we document a charge-gap opening at low temperatures in line with previous experimental work. The gap structure does not match conventional band theory and is reminiscent of (pseudo)gap characteristics in correlated oxides.

Formation of Multi-Layer Structures in Bi3Pb7 Intermetallic Compounds under an Ultra-High Gravitational Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mashimo, T.; Iguchi, Y.; Bagum, R.; Sano, T.; Sakata, O.; Ono, M.; Okayasu, S.

2008-02-01

Ultra-high gravitational field (Mega-gravity field) can promote sedimentation of atoms (diffusion) even in solids, and is expected to form a compositionally-graded structure and/or nonequilibrium phase in multi-component condensed matter. We had achieved sedimentation of substitutional solute atoms in miscible systems (Bi-Sb, In-Pb, etc.). In this study, a mega-gravity experiment at high temperature was performed on a thin-plate sample (0.7 mm in thickness) of the intermetallic compound Bi3Pb7. A visible four-layer structure was produced, which exhibited different microscopic structures. In the lowest-gravity region layer, Bi phase appeared. In the mid layers, a compositionally-graded structure was formed, with differences observed in the powder X-ray diffraction patterns. Such a multi-layer structure is expected to exhibit unique physical properties such as superconductivity.

Science Using an Electrostatic Levitation Furnace in the MUCAT Sector at the APS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldman, A.; Kelton, K. F.; Rogers, J. R.

2004-01-01

The original motivation for the construction of the BESL prototype was to obtain the first proof of a 50-year-old hypothesis regarding the solidification of liquid metals. Since the 1950s it has been known that under proper conditions liquid metals can be cooled below their melting temperature (undercooled) without crystallizing to the stable solid phase. In 1952 Frank proposed that this was because the atoms in the metallic liquid were arranged with the symmetry of an icosahedron, a Platonic solid consisting of 20 tetrahedra (4-sided pyramid-shaped polyhedra) arranged around a common center. Since this local atomic order is incompatible with the long-range translational periodicity of crystal phases, a barrier is formed to the formation of small regions of the crystal phase, the nucleation barrier. A proof of Frank's hypothesis required a direct correlation between measured icosahedral order in the undercooled liquid and the nucleation barrier. The tendency of sample containers to catalyze nucleation obscured this relation, requiring containerless techniques. Combining containerless processing techniques for electrostatically levitated droplets (ESL) with x-ray synchrotron methods, a team from Washington University, St. Louis, MO, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, and MUCAT at the APS demonstrated an increasing icosahedral order in TiZrNi liquids with decreasing temperature below the melting temperature. The increased icosahedral order caused the transformation of the liquid to a metastable icosahedral quasicrystal phase, instead of the stable tetrahedrally-coordinated crystal intermetallic, giving the first clear demonstration of the connection between the nucleation barrier and the local structure of the liquid, verifying Frank's hypothesis for this alloy.

A Comparative Study on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn Joints Formed by TLP Soldering With/Without the Assistance of Ultrasonic Waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, H. Y.; Liu, J. H.; Li, Z. L.; Song, X. G.; Zhao, Y. X.; Niu, H. W.; Tian, H.; Dong, H. J.; Feng, J. C.

2018-07-01

In this study, the microstructure and mechanical properties of Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn intermetallic joints, formed by the transient liquid phase (TLP) soldering process with and without the assistance of ultrasonic waves (USWs), were compared. After the application of USWs in the TLP soldering process, Cu-Sn intermetallic compounds (IMCs) exhibited a novel noninterfacial growth pattern in the molten solder interlayer. The resulting Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn joints consisted of refined equiaxed IMC grains with average sizes of 3 and 2.3 µm, respectively. The Cu6Sn5 grains in the ultrasonically soldered intermetallic joints demonstrated uniform mechanical properties with elastic modulus and hardness values of 123.0 and 5.98 GPa, respectively, while those of Cu3Sn grains were 133.9 and 5.08 GPa, respectively. The shear strengths of ultrasonically soldered Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn joints were measured to be 60 and 65 MPa, respectively, higher than that for reflow-soldered intermetallic joints. Ultrasonically soldered Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn joints both exhibited a combination of transgranular and intergranular fractures during shear testing.

A Comparative Study on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn Joints Formed by TLP Soldering With/Without the Assistance of Ultrasonic Waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, H. Y.; Liu, J. H.; Li, Z. L.; Song, X. G.; Zhao, Y. X.; Niu, H. W.; Tian, H.; Dong, H. J.; Feng, J. C.

2018-05-01

In this study, the microstructure and mechanical properties of Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn intermetallic joints, formed by the transient liquid phase (TLP) soldering process with and without the assistance of ultrasonic waves (USWs), were compared. After the application of USWs in the TLP soldering process, Cu-Sn intermetallic compounds (IMCs) exhibited a novel noninterfacial growth pattern in the molten solder interlayer. The resulting Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn joints consisted of refined equiaxed IMC grains with average sizes of 3 and 2.3 µm, respectively. The Cu6Sn5 grains in the ultrasonically soldered intermetallic joints demonstrated uniform mechanical properties with elastic modulus and hardness values of 123.0 and 5.98 GPa, respectively, while those of Cu3Sn grains were 133.9 and 5.08 GPa, respectively. The shear strengths of ultrasonically soldered Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn joints were measured to be 60 and 65 MPa, respectively, higher than that for reflow-soldered intermetallic joints. Ultrasonically soldered Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn joints both exhibited a combination of transgranular and intergranular fractures during shear testing.

Effect of severe plastic deformation on the structure and crystal-lattice distortions in the Ni3(Al, X) ( X = Ti, Nb) intermetallic compound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazantseva, N. V.; Pilyugin, V. P.; Danilov, S. E.; Kolosov, V. Yu.

2015-05-01

A systematic combined study of crystal lattice distortions caused by doping and by severe plastic deformation (SPD) of Ti- and Nb-doped Ni3Al intermetallic compound has been carried out using methods of X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and electrical-resistance measurements. The degree of imperfection of the alloys has been estimated based on the results obtained by all three methods. The degree of structural perfection of niobium-doped crystals was found to be higher than in the case of Ti doping. The character of stresses (tensile stresses after doping; and compressive stresses after SPD) in the crystal lattice has been established and their values have been calculated. A significant increase in the density of dislocations, point defects, and lattice curvature has been found after SPD. A nanocrystalline structure is formed in these alloys, but no complete disordering of the intermetallic phase is observed.

Synthesis, crystal structure, and magnetic properties of novel intermetallic compounds R2Co2SiC (R = Pr, Nd).

PubMed

Zhou, Sixuan; Mishra, Trinath; Wang, Man; Shatruk, Michael; Cao, Huibo; Latturner, Susan E

2014-06-16

The intermetallic compounds R2Co2SiC (R = Pr, Nd) were prepared from the reaction of silicon and carbon in either Pr/Co or Nd/Co eutectic flux. These phases crystallize with a new stuffed variant of the W2CoB2 structure type in orthorhombic space group Immm with unit cell parameters a = 3.978(4) Å, b = 6.094(5) Å, c = 8.903(8) Å (Z = 2; R1 = 0.0302) for Nd2Co2SiC. Silicon, cobalt, and carbon atoms form two-dimensional flat sheets, which are separated by puckered layers of rare-earth cations. Magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate that the rare earth cations in both analogues order ferromagnetically at low temperature (TC ≈ 12 K for Nd2Co2SiC and TC ≈ 20 K for Pr2Co2SiC). Single-crystal neutron diffraction data for Nd2Co2SiC indicate that Nd moments initially align ferromagnetically along the c axis around ∼12 K, but below 11 K, they tilt slightly away from the c axis, in the ac plane. Electronic structure calculations confirm the lack of spin polarization for Co 3d moments.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lin, Qisheng; Aguirre, Kaiser; Saunders, Scott M.

Planar hydrocarbon-like metal clusters may foster new insights linking organic molecules with conjugated π-π bonding interactions and inorganic structures in terms of their bonding characteristics. However, such clusters are uncommon in polar intermetallics. Herein, we report two polar intermetallic phases, Pr 5Co 2Ge 3 and Pr 7Co 2Ge 4, both of which feature such planar metal clusters, viz., ethylene-like [Co 2Ge 4] clusters plus the concatenated forms and polyacene-like [Co 2Ge 2] n ribbons in Pr 5Co 2Ge 3, and 1,2,4,5-tetramethylbenzene-like [Co4Ge6] cluster in Pr 7Co 2Ge 4. Just as in the related planar organic structures, these metal-metalloid species aremore » dominated by covalent bonding interactions. Both compounds magnetically order at low temperature with net ferromagnetic components: Pr 5Co 2Ge 3 via a series of transitions below 150 K; and Pr 7Co 2Ge 4 via a single ferromagnetic transition at 19 K. Spin-polarized electronic structure calculations for Pr 7Co 2Ge 4 reveal strong spin-orbit coupling within Pr and considerable magnetic contributions from Co atoms. This work suggests that similar structural chemistry can emerge for other rare earth-late transition metal-main group systems.« less

Understanding the high-temperature deformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gyurko, Angela M.; Vignoul, Gregory E.; Tien, John K.; Sanchez, Juan M.

1992-11-01

Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 While much of the high-temperature intermetallics research has centered around Ni3Al and other aluminum-based systems, the present study focuses on the Engel-Brewer Ll2 intermetallic Ir3Zr, which has a melting temperature approaching that of ceramics (2280 °C). Due to limited material availability, the technique of microindentation was used to study both the temperature and time dependence of strength. Because of the widely held belief that certain mechanical properties of intermetallics scale roughly with temperature, Ir3Zr was expected to exhibit high strength. The microhardness was observed to vary from 225 MPa at room temperature to 75 MPa at 1400 °C, which is significantly lower than the behavior of Ni3Al. The activation energy for creep was determined to be 467 kJ/mole, and the stress exponent was found to be 18.2. The ordering energy of this system was calculated to be 0.114 eV. If it can be assumed that high ordering energy correlates to a high antiphase boundary (APB) energy, then the behavior of this system is consistent with a model that predicts highly glissile dislocation cores.

Low-field induced large magnetocaloric effect in Tm2Ni0.93Si2.93: influence of short-range magnetic correlation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pakhira, Santanu; Mazumdar, Chandan; Ranganathan, R.

2017-12-01

In this work, we report the successful synthesis of a new intermetallic compound Tm2 Ni0.93 Si2.93 that forms in single phase only in defect crystal structure. The compound does not show any long range magnetic ordering down to 2 K. The material exhibits a large magnetic entropy change (-Δ S_M˜13.7 J kg-1 K-1) and adiabatic temperature change (Δ T_ad˜4.4 K) at 2.2 K for a field change of 20 kOe which can be realized by permanent magnets, thus being very beneficial for application purpose. In the absence of long-range magnetic ordering down to 2 K, the metastable nature of low-temperature spin dynamics and short-range magnetic correlations are considered to be responsible for such a large magnetocaloric effect over a wide temperature region.

Transformation and Precipitation Reactions by Metal Active Gas Pulsed Welded Joints from X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 Duplex Stainless Steels

PubMed Central

Utu, Ion-Dragos; Mitelea, Ion; Urlan, Sorin Dumitru; Crăciunescu, Corneliu Marius

2016-01-01

The high alloying degree of Duplex stainless steels makes them susceptible to the formation of intermetallic phases during their exposure to high temperatures. Precipitation of these phases can lead to a decreasing of the corrosion resistance and sometimes of the toughness. Starting from the advantages of the synergic Metal Active Gas (MAG) pulsed welding process, this paper analyses the structure formation particularities of homogeneous welded joints from Duplex stainless steel. The effect of linear welding energy on the structure morphology of the welded joints was revealed by macro- and micrographic examinations, X-ray energy dispersion analyses, measurements of ferrite proportion and X-ray diffraction analysis. The results obtained showed that the transformation of ferrite into austenite is associated with the chromium, nickel, molybdenum and nitrogen distribution between these two phases and their redistribution degree is closely linked to the overall heat cycle of the welding process. The adequate control of the energy inserted in the welded components provides an optimal balance between the two microstructural constituents (Austenite and Ferrite) and avoids the formation of undesirable intermetallic phases. PMID:28773727

Transformation and Precipitation Reactions by Metal Active Gas Pulsed Welded Joints from X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 Duplex Stainless Steels.

PubMed

Utu, Ion-Dragos; Mitelea, Ion; Urlan, Sorin Dumitru; Crăciunescu, Corneliu Marius

2016-07-21

The high alloying degree of Duplex stainless steels makes them susceptible to the formation of intermetallic phases during their exposure to high temperatures. Precipitation of these phases can lead to a decreasing of the corrosion resistance and sometimes of the toughness. Starting from the advantages of the synergic Metal Active Gas (MAG) pulsed welding process, this paper analyses the structure formation particularities of homogeneous welded joints from Duplex stainless steel. The effect of linear welding energy on the structure morphology of the welded joints was revealed by macro- and micrographic examinations, X-ray energy dispersion analyses, measurements of ferrite proportion and X-ray diffraction analysis. The results obtained showed that the transformation of ferrite into austenite is associated with the chromium, nickel, molybdenum and nitrogen distribution between these two phases and their redistribution degree is closely linked to the overall heat cycle of the welding process. The adequate control of the energy inserted in the welded components provides an optimal balance between the two microstructural constituents (Austenite and Ferrite) and avoids the formation of undesirable intermetallic phases.

Influence of ageing time on hardness, microstructure and wear behaviour of AISI2507 super duplex stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davanageri, Mahesh; Narendranath, S.; Kadoli, Ravikiran

2017-08-01

The effect of ageing time on hardness, microstructure and wear behaviour of super duplex stainless AISI 2507 is examined. The material was solution treated at 1050 °C and water quenched, further the ageing has been carried out at 850 °C for 30 min, 60 min and 90 min. The chromium (Cr) and molybdenum (Mo) enriched intermetallic sigma phase (σ) were found to precipitate at the ferrite/austenite interface and within the ferrite region. The concentration of intermetallic sigma phase (σ), which was quantified by a combination of scanning electron microscopy and image analysis, increases with increasing ageing time, leading to significant increase in the hardness. The x-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) was employed to investigate the element distribution and phase identification. Wear characterstics of the aged super duplex stainless steel were measured by varying normal loads, sliding speeds, sliding distance and compared with solution treated (as-cast) specimens. Scanning electron microscopy was used to assist in analysis of worn out surfaces. The outcomes suggested that the increase in percentage of sigma phase increases hardness and wear resistance in heat-treated specimens compared to solution treated specimens (as-cast).

Ordered PdCu-Based Nanoparticles as Bifunctional Oxygen-Reduction and Ethanol-Oxidation Electrocatalysts

DOE PAGES

Jiang, Kezhu; Wang, Pengtang; Guo, Shaojun; ...

2016-06-02

Here, the development of superior non-platinum electrocatalysts for enhancing the electrocatalytic activity and stability for the oxygen-reduction reaction (ORR) and liquid fuel oxidation reaction is very important for the commercialization of fuel cells,but still agreat challenge.Herein, we demonstrate a new colloidal chemistry technique for making structurally ordered PdCu-based nanoparticles (NPs) with composition control from PdCu to PdCuNi and PtCuCo.Under the dual tuning on the composition and intermetallic phase,the ordered PdCuCo NPs exhibit better activity and much enhanced stability for ORR and ethanol-oxidation reaction (EOR)than those of disordered PdCuM NPs,the commercial Pt/Cand Pd/C catalysts.The density functional theory (DFT)calculations reveal that themore » improved ORR activity on the PdCuM NPs stems from the catalytically active hollow sites arising from the ligand effect and the compressive strain on thePd surface owing to the smaller atomic size of Cu, Co,and Ni.« less

Intermetallic Growth and Interfacial Properties of the Grain Refiners in Al Alloys

PubMed Central

Li, Chunmei; Cheng, Nanpu; Chen, Zhiqian; Xie, Zhongjing; Hui, Liangliang

2018-01-01

Al3TM(TM = Ti, Zr, Hf, Sc) particles acting as effective grain refiners for Al alloys have been receiving extensive attention these days. In order to judge their nucleation behaviors, first-principles calculations are used to investigate their intermetallic and interfacial properties. Based on energy analysis, Al3Zr and Al3Sc are more suitable for use as grain refiners than the other two intermetallic compounds. Interfacial properties show that Al/Al3TM(TM = Ti, Zr, Hf, Sc) interfaces in I-ter interfacial mode exhibit better interface wetting effects due to larger Griffith rupture work and a smaller interface energy. Among these, Al/Al3Sc achieves the lowest interfacial energy, which shows that Sc atoms should get priority for occupying interfacial sites. Additionally, Sc-doped Al/Al3(Zr, Sc) interfacial properties show that Sc can effectively improve the Al/Al3(Zr, Sc) binding strength with the Al matrix. By combining the characteristics of interfaces with the properties of intermetallics, the core-shell structure with Al3Zr-core or Al3Zr(Sc1-1)-core encircled with an Sc-rich shell forms. PMID:29677155

First principle study on generalized-stacking-fault energy surfaces of B2-AlRE intermetallic compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shaorong; Wang, Shaofeng; Wang, Rui

2011-12-01

First-principles calculations are used to predict the generalized-stacking-fault energy (GSFE) surfaces of AlRE intermetallics. The calculations employ the projector augmented-wave (PAW) method within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) using the density functional theory (DFT). GSFE curves along <1 1 1> {1 1 0} direction, <1 1 0> {1 1 0} direction and <1 0 0> {1 1 0} direction have been calculated. The fitted GSFE surfaces have been obtained from the Fourier series based on the translational symmetry. In order to illuminate the reasonable of our computational accuracy, we have compared our theoretical results of B2 intermetallics YCu with the previous calculated results. The unstable-stacking-fault energy (γus) on the {1 1 0} plane has the laws of AlPr, <1 1 0> and <1 1 1> directions. For the antiphase boundary (APB) energy, that of AlSc is the lowest in the calculated AlRE intermetallics. So the superdislocation with the Burgers vector along <1 1 1> direction of AlSc will easily split into two superpartials.

In situ phase transformation of Laves phase from Chi-phase in Mo-containing Fe–Cr–Ni alloys

DOE PAGES

Tan, L.; Yang, Y.

2015-11-01

For an in situ phase transformation of the Chi (χ) phase to the Laves phase we observed in a Fe–Cr–Ni–Mo model alloy. The morphology, composition, and crystal structure of the χ and Laves phases, and their orientation relationship with the matrix austenite phase were investigated. The resulted Laves phase has larger lattice mismatch with the matrix phase than the χ phase, leading to the increase of local strain fields and the formation of dislocations. Moreover, this finding is helpful to understand the precipitation behavior of the intermetallic phases in the Mo-containing austenitic stainless steels.

Synthesis of a single phase of high-entropy Laves intermetallics in the Ti-Zr-V-Cr-Ni equiatomic alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yadav, T. P.; Mukhopadhyay, Semanti; Mishra, S. S.; Mukhopadhyay, N. K.; Srivastava, O. N.

2017-12-01

The high-entropy Ti-Zr-V-Cr-Ni (20 at% each) alloy consisting of all five hydride-forming elements was successfully synthesised by the conventional melting and casting as well as by the melt-spinning technique. The as-cast alloy consists entirely of the micron size hexagonal Laves Phase of C14 type; whereas, the melt-spun ribbon exhibits the evolution of nanocrystalline Laves phase. There was no evidence of any amorphous or any other metastable phases in the present processing condition. This is the first report of synthesising a single phase of high-entropy complex intermetallic compound in the equiatomic quinary alloy system. The detailed characterisation by X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the existence of a single-phase multi-component hexagonal C14-type Laves phase in all the as-cast, melt-spun and annealed alloys. The lattice parameter a = 5.08 Å and c = 8.41 Å was determined from the annealed material (annealing at 1173 K). The thermodynamic calculations following the Miedema's approach support the stability of the high-entropy multi-component Laves phase compared to that of the solid solution or glassy phases. The high hardness value (8.92 GPa at 25 g load) has been observed in nanocrystalline high-entropy alloy ribbon without any cracking. It implies that high-yield strength ( 3.00 GPa) and the reasonable fracture toughness can be achieved in this high-entropy material.

AB INITIO STUDY OF PHONON DISPERSION AND ELASTIC PROPERTIES OF L12 INTERMETALLICS Ti3Al AND Y3Al

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arikan, N.; Ersen, M.; Ocak, H. Y.; Iyigör, A.; Candan, A.; UǦUR, Ş.; UǦUR, G.; Khenata, R.; Varshney, D.

2013-12-01

In this paper, the structural, elastic and phonon properties of Ti3Al and Y3Al in L12(Cu3Al) phase are studied by performing first-principles calculations within the generalized gradient approximation. The calculated lattice constants, static bulk moduli, first-order pressure derivative of bulk moduli and elastic constants for both compounds are reported. The phonon dispersion curves along several high-symmetry lines at the Brillouin zone, together with the corresponding phonon density of states, are determined using the first-principles linear-response approach of the density functional perturbation theory. Temperature variations of specific heat in the range of 0-500 K are obtained using the quasi-harmonic model.

Synthesizing Aluminum alloys by double mechanical alloying

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Froyen, L.; Delaey, L.; Niu, X. P.; Le Brun, P.; Peytour, C.

1995-03-01

A new synthesis technique, namely double mechanical alloying (dMA), has been developed to fabricate aluminum alloys containing the finely distributed intermetallic compounds and inert dispersoids Al4C3 and Al2O3 The technique consists mainly of three steps: a primary milling stage of elemental powders (MAI) followed by a heat treatment to promote the formation of intermetallic phases, a secondary milling stage (MA2) to refine the microstructure, and consolidation of the produced powders. The results of mechanical and tribological properties of the resulting materials indicate that the dMA is a promising technique for the fabrication of aluminum alloys for applications requiring wear resistance and high-temperature performance.

Effect of Iron and Magnesium on Alloy AL9M Structure and Properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bazhenov, V. E.; Koltygin, A. V.; Belov, V. D.

2017-09-01

The effect of iron impurity on the structure and properties of aluminum alloy AL9M, especially its action on magnesium distribution within the structure, is studied. The microstructure of a cast component of this alloy broken during operation is analyzed. It is shown that iron impurity has an unfavorable effect on structure and mechanical properties of a casting due to appearance of Al9Fe2Si and Al18Fe2Mg7Si10 intermetallics. Formation of these intermetallics consumes a considerable amount of magnesium and lowers the content of the Q(Al5Cu2Mg8Si6) strengthening phase in the alloy structure.

New eutectic alloys and their heats of transformation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farkas, D.; Birchenall, C. E.

1985-01-01

Eutectic compositions and congruently melting intermetallic compounds in binary and multicomponent systems among common elements such as Al, Ca, Cu, Mg, P, Si, and Zn may be useful for high temperature heat storage. In this work, heats of fusion of new multicomponent eutectics and intermetallic phases are reported, some of which are competitive with molten salts in heat storage density at high temperatures. The method used to determine unknown eutectic compositions combined results of differential thermal analysis, metallography, and microprobe analysis. The method allows determination of eutectic compositions in no more than three steps. The heats of fusion of the alloys were measured using commercial calorimeters, a differential thermal analyzer, and a differential scanning calorimeter.

Unfolding the physics of URu 2Si 2 through silicon to phosphorus substitution

DOE PAGES

Gallagher, A.; Chen, K. -W.; Moir, C. M.; ...

2016-02-19

The heavy fermion intermetallic compound URu 2Si 2 exhibits a hidden-order phase below the temperature of 17.5 K, which supports both anomalous metallic behavior and unconventional superconductivity. While these individual phenomena have been investigated in detail, it remains unclear how they are related to each other and to what extent uranium f-electron valence fluctuations influence each one. Here we use ligand site substituted URu 2Si 2-xP x to establish their evolution under electronic tuning. We find that while hidden order is monotonically suppressed and destroyed for x ≤ 0.035, the superconducting strength evolves non-monotonically with a maximum near x ≈more » 0.01 and that superconductivity is destroyed near x ≈ 0.028. This behavior reveals that hidden order depends strongly on tuning outside of the U f-electron shells. Furthermore, it also suggests that while hidden order provides an environment for superconductivity and anomalous metallic behavior, it’s fluctuations may not be solely responsible for their progression.« less

Asymmetrical bonding in cold spraying of dissimilar materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nikbakht, R.; Seyedein, S. H.; Kheirandish, S.; Assadi, H.; Jodoin, B.

2018-06-01

Characteristics of particle bonding, especially for dissimilar materials, remains a key question in cold spray deposition. There are limited reports in direct correlation to particle/substrate bonding and peripheral shear zones. Cold spraying experiments and numerical simulations are conducted to characterise and analyse the correlation between bonding and peripheral shear zones for asymmetric particle/substrate pairs of intermetallic-forming elements of nickel and titanium. The correlation between metallic bonding and highly strained areas is explored in view of the growth of the intermetallic phase at the particle/substrate interface during subsequent heat treatments. Characterisation of the as-sprayed samples reveal that for the Ni(particle)/Ti(substrate) pair, plastic deformation of the particle is dominating over substrate deformation. However, for the Ti(particle)/Ni(substrate) pair, it is observed that the substrate and particle deform to similar extents. Characterisation of the samples after a brief heat treatment at 700 °C indicate that intermetallic formation, and hence metallurgical bonding of the pairs is more likely to occur at the particle peripheries where the interface areas are highly strained, and rarely achieved at the particle base. Results also reveal that bonding extends from peripheries toward the central part of the interfaces with increasing the impact velocity. The kinetics of interfacial intermetallic formation at peripheral areas and its correlation to particle bonding is discussed in view of deformation-enhanced interdiffusion.

Section 2: Phase transformation studies in mechanically alloyed Fe-Nz and Fe-Zn-Si intermetallics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jordan, A.; Uwakweh, O.N.C.; Maziasz, P.J.

1997-04-01

The initial stage of this study, which was completed in FY 1995, entailed an extensive analysis characterizing the structural evolution of the Fe-Zn intermetallic system. The primary interest in these Fe-Zn phases stems from the fact that they form an excellent coating for the corrosion protection of steel (i.e., automobile body panels). The Fe-Zn coating generally forms up to four intermetallic phases depending on the particular industrial application used, (i.e., galvanization, galvannealing, etc.). Since the different coating applications are non-equilibrium in nature, it becomes necessary to employ a non-equilibrium method for producing homogeneous alloys in the solid-state to reflect themore » structural changes occurring in a true coating. This was accomplished through the use of a high energy/non-equilibrium technique known as ball-milling which allowed the authors to monitor the evolution process of the alloys as they transformed from a metastable to stable equilibrium state. In FY 1996, this study was expanded to evaluate the presence of Si in the Fe-Zn system and its influence in the overall coating. The addition of silicon in steel gives rise to an increased coating. However, the mechanisms leading to the coating anomaly are still not fully understood. For this reason, mechanical alloying through ball-milling of pure elemental powders was used to study the structural changes occurring in the sandelin region (i.e., 0.12 wt % Si). Through the identification of invariant reactions (i.e., eutectic, etc.) the authors were able to explore the sandelin phenomenon and also determine the various fields or boundaries associated with the Fe-Zn-Si ternary system.« less

Solid Liquid Interdiffusion Bonding of Zn4Sb3 Thermoelectric Material with Cu Electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Y. C.; Lee, K. T.; Hwang, J. D.; Chu, H. S.; Hsu, C. C.; Chen, S. C.; Chuang, T. H.

2016-10-01

The ZnSb intermetallic compound may have thermoelectric applications because it is low in cost and environmentally friendly. In this study, a Zn4Sb3 thermoelectric element coated with a Ni barrier layer and a Ag reaction layer was bonded with a Ag-coated Cu electrode using a Ag/Sn/Ag solid-liquid interdiffusion bonding process. The results indicated that a Ni5Zn21 intermetallic phase formed easily at the Zn4Sb3/Ni interface, leading to sound adhesion. In addition, Sn film was found to react completely with the Ag layer to form a Ag3Sn intermetallic layer having a melting point of 480°C. The resulting Zn4Sb3 thermoelectric module can be applied at the optimized operation temperature (400°C) of Zn4Sb3 material as a thermoelectric element. The bonding strengths ranged from 14.9 MPa to 25.0 MPa, and shear tests revealed that the Zn4Sb3/Cu-joints fractured through the interior of the thermoelectric elements.

The Influence of Ultrasonic Cavitation on the Formation of Fe-Rich Intermetallics in A383 Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xuan, Yang; Liu, Tao; Nastac, Laurentiu; Brewer, Luke; Levin, Ilya; Arvikar, Vish

2018-06-01

The effect of ultrasonic treatment (UST) on the formation of Fe-rich intermetallics (including sludge) in the A383 alloy is investigated for different processing temperatures in the present study. Differential scanning calorimetry is used to analyze the precipitation temperature of the sludge phase. The results revealed that the sludge will precipitate at a temperature above that of the Al matrix and the precipitation temperature decreases with an increasing cooling rate. UST cavitation applied at different temperatures (600 °C to 750 °C) during the solidification process breaks the sludge into small island-like pieces. However, the aggregation trend of the sludge is not changed. Sludge with small size and uniform distribution is obtained when UST is applied at 600 °C, which is lower than the precipitation temperature of the sludge. At the highest temperature (850 °C), the application of UST has no effect on the formation of either sludge or α-Fe intermetallics. At 750 °C, UST promotes the formation of the sludge when applied at 750 °C.

Development of high temperature nickel-base alloys for jet engine turbine bucket applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Quigg, R. J.; Scheirer, S. T.

1965-01-01

A program has been initiated to develop a material with superior properties at elevated temperatures for utilization in turbine blade applications. A nickel-base superalloy can provide the necessary high temperature strength by using the maximum capability of the three available strengthening mechanisms - intermetallic gamma prime precipitation (Ni3Al), solid solution strengthening with refractory and precious metals, and stable carbide formations through the addition of strong carbide forming elements. A stress rupture test at 2000 deg F and 15,000 psi was formulated to approximate the desired properties. By adding varying amounts of refractory metals (Mo, W and Ta) it was possible to statistically analyze the effects of each in a basic superalloy composition containing fixed amounts of Co, Cr, C, B, Sr, and Ni at three separate levels of AL and Ta. Metallographic analysis correlated with the mechanical properties of the alloys; those with few strengthening phases were weak and ductile and those with excessive amounts of intermetallic phases present in undesirable morphologies were brittle.

MCrAlY bond coat with enhanced yttrium

DOEpatents

Jablonski, Paul D.; Hawk, Jeffrey A.

2016-08-30

One or more embodiments relates to a method of producing an MCrAlY bond coat comprising an MCrAlY layer in contact with a Y--Al.sub.2O.sub.3 layer. The MCrAlY layer is comprised of a .gamma.-M solid solution, a .beta.-MAl intermetallic phase, and Y-type intermetallics. The Y--Al.sub.2O.sub.3 layer is comprised of Yttrium atoms coordinated with oxygen atoms comprising the Al.sub.2O.sub.3 lattice. The method comprises depositing an MCrAlY material on a substrate, applying an Y.sub.2O.sub.3 paste, and heating the substrate in a non-oxidizing atmosphere at a temperature between 400-1300.degree. C. for a time sufficient to generate the Y--Al.sub.2O.sub.3 layer. Both the MCrAlY layer and the Y--Al.sub.2O.sub.3 layer have a substantial absence of Y.sub.2O.sub.3, YAG, and YAP phases.

Synthesis, Structure and bonding Analysis of the Polar Intermetallic Phase Ca2Pt2Cd

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Samal, Saroj L.; Corbett, John D.

The polar intermetallic phase Ca2Pt2Cd was discovered during explorations of the Ca-Pt-Cd system. The compound was synthesized by high temperature reactions, and its structure refined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction as orthorhombic, Immm, a = 4.4514(5), b = 5.8415(6), c = 8.5976(9) Å, Z = 2. The structure formally contains infinite, planar networks of [Pt2Cd]4– along the ab plane, which can be described as tessellation of six and four-member rings of the anions, with cations stuffed between the anion layers. The infinite condensed platinum chains show a substantial long–short distortion of 0.52 Å, an appreciable difference between Ca2Pt2Cd (26 valence electrons)more » and the isotypic but regular Ca2Cu2Ga (29 VE). The relatively large cation proportion diminishes the usual dominance of polar (Pt–Cd) and 5d–5d (Pt–Pt) contributions to the total Hamilton populations.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shi, Qiurong; Zhu, Chengzhou; Bi, Cuixia

Intermetallic nanocrystals are currently receiving extensive attention due to their well-defined crystal structures, highly ordered atomic distribution and superior structural stability that endow them with optimized catalytic activities, stabilities and high selectivity for use as electrocatalysts for fuel cells.

Method of making sintered ductile intermetallic-bonded ceramic composites

DOEpatents

Plucknett, Kevin; Tiegs, Terry N.; Becher, Paul F.

1999-01-01

A method of making an intermetallic-bonded ceramic composite involves combining a particulate brittle intermetallic precursor with a particulate reactant metal and a particulate ceramic to form a mixture and heating the mixture in a non-oxidizing atmosphere at a sufficient temperature and for a sufficient time to react the brittle intermetallic precursor and the reactant metal to form a ductile intermetallic and sinter the mixture to form a ductile intermetallic-bonded ceramic composite.

Cu-Zn binary phase diagram and diffusion couples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mccoy, Robert A.

1992-01-01

The objectives of this paper are to learn: (1) what information a binary phase diagram can yield; (2) how to construct and heat treat a simple diffusion couple; (3) how to prepare a metallographic sample; (4) how to operate a metallograph; (5) how to correlate phases found in the diffusion couple with phases predicted by the phase diagram; (6) how diffusion couples held at various temperatures could be used to construct a phase diagram; (7) the relation between the thickness of an intermetallic phase layer and the diffusion time; and (8) the effect of one species of atoms diffusing faster than another species in a diffusion couple.

RETRACTED ARTICLE: Microstructure and strengthening mechanism of Ni3Al intermetallic compound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oh, Chang-Sup; Han, Chang-Suk

2013-09-01

Structural studies have been performed on precipitation hardening found in Ni3Al-base ordered alloys using transmission electron microscopy. The γ' phase hardens appreciably by the fine precipitation of disordered γ. The strength of γ' increases over the temperature range of experiment by the precipitation of fine γ particles. The peak temperature where a maximum strength was obtained shifted to higher temperature. Superlattice dislocations dissociate into fourfold Shockley partial dislocations in a uniform supersaturated solid solution of the γ' phase. Dislocations are attracted into the disordered γ phase and dissociate further in the particles. At any stage of aging, dislocations cut through the particles and the Orowan bypassing process does not occur even in the overaged stage of this alloy system. When the applied stress is removed, the dislocations make cross slip into (010) plane, while those in γ precipitates remain on the (111) primary slip plane. The increase of high temperature strength in γ' containing γ precipitates is due to the restraint of cross slip of dislocations from (111) to (010) by the dispersion of disordered γ particles. The orientation dependence of strength is decreased by the fine precipitation of a disordered γ phase.

Method of making sintered ductile intermetallic-bonded ceramic composites

DOEpatents

Plucknett, K.; Tiegs, T.N.; Becher, P.F.

1999-05-18

A method of making an intermetallic-bonded ceramic composite involves combining a particulate brittle intermetallic precursor with a particulate reactant metal and a particulate ceramic to form a mixture and heating the mixture in a non-oxidizing atmosphere at a sufficient temperature and for a sufficient time to react the brittle intermetallic precursor and the reactant metal to form a ductile intermetallic and sinter the mixture to form a ductile intermetallic-bonded ceramic composite. 2 figs.

Formation of Gradient Structures in the Zone of Joining a Deformable Nickel Alloy and a Single-Crystal Intermetallic Alloy during Thermodiffusion Pressure Welding and Subsequent Heat Treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Povarova, K. B.; Valitov, V. A.; Drozdov, A. A.; Bazyleva, O. A.; Galieva, E. V.; Arginbaeva, E. G.

2018-01-01

The possibility of formation of a high-quality solid-phase joint of an Ni3Al-based single-crystal intermetallic VKNA-25 blade alloy with a high-temperature deformable EP975 disk alloy by pressure welding is studied to create high-performance one-piece blisk unit for the next-generation aviation gas turbine engines and to decrease the unit mass. The influence of the conditions of thermodiffusion pressure welding under the hightemperature superplasticity of the disk alloy and the influence of heat treatment of welded joints on the gradient structures in the welded joint zone and the structure at the periphery of the welded samples are investigated.

Predicting the stability of ternary intermetallics with density functional theory and machine learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, Jonathan; Chen, Liming; Botti, Silvana; Marques, Miguel A. L.

2018-06-01

We use a combination of machine learning techniques and high-throughput density-functional theory calculations to explore ternary compounds with the AB2C2 composition. We chose the two most common intermetallic prototypes for this composition, namely, the tI10-CeAl2Ga2 and the tP10-FeMo2B2 structures. Our results suggest that there may be ˜10 times more stable compounds in these phases than previously known. These are mostly metallic and non-magnetic. While the use of machine learning reduces the overall calculation cost by around 75%, some limitations of its predictive power still exist, in particular, for compounds involving the second-row of the periodic table or magnetic elements.

Effects of Cooling Rate on Precipitate Evolution and Residual Stresses in Al-Si-Mn-Mg Casting Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Eunkyung; Walde, Caitlin; Mishra, Brajendra

2018-07-01

The residual stresses with different heat treatment conditions have been measured and correlated with the microstructural behavior of AA365. 30 and 100 K/min cooling of AA365 inhibited the transformation of precipitates under 773 K, respectively. The alloy cooled at 30 and 100 K/min exhibited tensile residual stresses of 6.2 and 5.4 MPa, respectively, while the alloy cooled at 1 and 10 K/min showed compressive stresses of - 12.8 and - 10.3 MPa, respectively. The formation β', β″, and other intermetallic compounds affected the compressive residual stresses, and that the fracture of the brittle intermetallic phases could reduce the extent of residual stresses in the lattice through plastic deformation.

Effects of Cooling Rate on Precipitate Evolution and Residual Stresses in Al-Si-Mn-Mg Casting Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Eunkyung; Walde, Caitlin; Mishra, Brajendra

2018-03-01

The residual stresses with different heat treatment conditions have been measured and correlated with the microstructural behavior of AA365. 30 and 100 K/min cooling of AA365 inhibited the transformation of precipitates under 773 K, respectively. The alloy cooled at 30 and 100 K/min exhibited tensile residual stresses of 6.2 and 5.4 MPa, respectively, while the alloy cooled at 1 and 10 K/min showed compressive stresses of - 12.8 and - 10.3 MPa, respectively. The formation β', β″, and other intermetallic compounds affected the compressive residual stresses, and that the fracture of the brittle intermetallic phases could reduce the extent of residual stresses in the lattice through plastic deformation.

The effects of cold work on the microstructure and mechanical properties of intermetallic strengthened alumina-forming austenitic stainless steels

DOE PAGES

Hu, Bin; Baker, Ian; Miller, Michael K.; ...

2015-06-12

In order to achieve energy conversion efficiencies of >50 pct for steam turbines/boilers in power generation systems, materials are required that are both strong and corrosion-resistant at >973 K (700 °C), and economically viable. Austenitic steels strengthened with Laves phase, NiAl and Ni 3Al precipitates, and alloyed with aluminum to improve oxidation resistance, are potential candidate materials for these applications. The microstructure and microchemistry of recently developed alumina-forming austenitic stainless steels have been characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and synchrotron X-ray diffraction. Different thermo-mechanical treatments were performed on these steels to improve their mechanical performance. These reducedmore » the grain size significantly to the nanoscale (~100 nm) and the room temperature yield strength to above 1000 MPa. Lastly, a solutionizing anneal at 1473 K (1200 °C) was found to be effective for uniformly redistributing the Laves phase precipitates that form upon casting.« less

Compatibility of potential reinforcing ceramics with Ni and Fe aluminides

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clark, William A. T.; Moser, Jeffrey A.

1991-01-01

There is a great deal of interest in the possible utilization of intermetallic compounds in advanced high temperature gas turbine engines. These compounds exhibit a variety of promising properties, including reasonable strength, high melting points, relatively low densities, and good corrosion resistance. However, in general, they also show limited ductilities and toughness, and less than optimum creep strengths at elevated temperatures. In addition, in applications involving advanced gas turbine engines, it is often necessary for candidate materials to have large elastic moduli. The present study is part of a program whose objective is to identify a high temperature fiber reinforced composite. The approach adopted was to fabricate laboratory samples of the combinations of materials considered by Misra, in order to determine the extent to which the thermodynamic calculations can predict phase stability. As many of the ceramic phases considered are not currently available in fiber form, they were added as particulates to the alloy matrices. The ways in which the materials were produced and evaluated are described.

Effects of annealing heat treatment on the corrosion resistance of Zn/Mg/Zn multilayer coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bae, KiTae; La, JoungHyun; Lee, InGyu; Lee, SangYul; Nam, KyungHoon

2017-05-01

Zn coatings alloyed with magnesium offer superior corrosion resistance compared to pure Zn or other Zn-based alloy coatings. In this study, Zn/Mg/Zn multilayer coatings with various Mg layer thicknesses were synthesized using an unbalanced magnetron sputtering process and were annealed to form Zn-Mg intermetallic phases. The effects of the annealing heat treatment on the corrosion resistance of the Zn/Mg/Zn multilayer coatings were evaluated using electrochemical measurements. The extensive diffusion of magnesium species into the upper and lower zinc layer from the magnesium layer in the middle of the coating was observed after the heat treatment. This phenomenon caused (a) the porous microstructure to transition into a dense structure and (b) the formation of a MgZn2 intermetallic phase. The results of the electrochemical measurements demonstrated that the heat treated Zn/Mg/Zn multilayer coatings possessed higher levels of corrosion resistance than the non-heat treated coatings. A Zn/Mg/Zn multilayer coating with MgZn2 and (Zn) phases showed the best corrosion resistance among the heat treated coatings, which could be attributed to the reduced galvanic corrosion effects due to a small potential gradient between the MgZn2 and zinc.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Xiaonan; Lin, Kun; Gao, Qilong

As one class of the most important intermetallic compounds, the binary Laves-phase is well-known for their abundant magnetic properties. Samarium-iron alloy system, SmFe 2, is a prototypical Laves compound that shows strong negative magnetostriction but relatively weak magnetocrystalline anisotropy. SmFe 2 has been identified as a cubic Fdmore » $$ \\overline{3}\\ $$m structure at room temperature, however, the cubic symmetry does not match the spontaneous magnetization along the [111] cubic direction. Here we studied the crystal structure of SmFe 2 by high-resolution synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction and X-ray total scattering methods. SmFe 2 is found to adopt a centrosymmetric trigonal R$$ \\overline{3}\\ $$m structure at room temperature, which transforms to an orthorhombic Imma structure at 200 K. This transition is in agreement with the changes of easy magnetization direction from [111] cubic to [110] cubic direction, and is further evidenced by the inflexion of thermal expansion behavior, the sharp decline of the magnetic susceptibility in the FC-ZFC curve, and the anomaly in the specific heat capacity measurement. The revised structure and phase transformation of SmFe 2 could be useful to understand the magnetostriction and related physical properties of other RM 2-type pseudo-cubic Laves-phase intermetallic compounds.« less

Corrosion behavior of as-cast Mg-8Li-3Al+ xCe alloy in 3.5wt% NaCl solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manivannan, S.; Dinesh, P.; Mahemaa, R.; MariyaPillai, Nandhakumaran; Kumaresh Babu, S. P.; Sundarrajan, Srinivasan

2016-10-01

Mg-8Li-3Al+ xCe alloys ( x = 0.5wt%, 1.0wt%, and 1.5wt%) were prepared through a casting route in an electric resistance furnace under a controlled atmosphere. The cast alloys were characterized by X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The corrosion behavior of the as-cast Mg-8Li-3Al+ xCe alloys were studied under salt spray tests in 3.5wt% NaCl solution at 35°C, in accordance with standard ASTM B-117, in conjunction with potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) tests. The results show that the addition of Ce to Mg-8Li-3Al (LA83) alloy results in the formation of Al2Ce intermetallic phase, refines both the α-Mg phase and the Mg17Al12 intermetallic phase, and then increases the microhardness of the alloys. The results of PDP and salt spray tests reveal that an increase in Ce content to 1.5wt% decreases the corrosion rate. The best corrosion resistance is observed for the LA83 alloy sample with 1.0wt% Ce.

Method for making devices having intermetallic structures and intermetallic devices made thereby

DOEpatents

Paul, Brian Kevin; Wilson, Richard Dean; Alman, David Eli

2004-01-06

A method and system for making a monolithic intermetallic structure are presented. The structure is made from lamina blanks which comprise multiple layers of metals which are patternable, or intermetallic lamina blanks that are patternable. Lamina blanks are patterned, stacked and registered, and processed to form a monolithic intermetallic structure. The advantages of a patterned monolithic intermetallic structure include physical characteristics such as melting temperature, thermal conductivity, and corrosion resistance. Applications are broad, and include among others, use as a microreactor, heat recycling device, and apparatus for producing superheated steam. Monolithic intermetallic structures may contain one or more catalysts within the internal features.

Evaluation of damage induced by high irradiation levels on α-Ni-Ni3Si eutectic structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camacho Olguin, Carlos Alberto; Garcia-Borquez, Arturo; González-Rodríguez, Carlos Alberto; Loran-Juanico, Jose Antonio; Cruz-Mejía, Hector

2015-06-01

Diluted alloys of the binary system Ni-Si have been used as target of beam of ions, electrons, neutrons and so on because in this kind of alloy occurs transformations order-disorder, when the temperature is raised. This fact has permitted to evaluate the phenomena associated with the damage induced by irradiation (DII). The results of these works have been employed to understand the behavior under irradiation of complex alloys and to evaluate the reliability of the results of mathematical simulation of the evolution of the DII. The interest in the alloy system Ni-Si has been reborn due to the necessity of developing materials, which have better resistance against the corrosion on more aggressive environments such as those generated on the nuclear power plants or those that exist out of the Earth's atmosphere. Now, a growing interest to use concentrated alloys of this binary system on diverse fields of the materials science has been taking place because up to determined concentration of silicon, a regular eutectic is formed, and this fact opens the possibility to develop lamellar composite material by directional solidification. However, nowadays, there is a lack of fundamental knowledge about the behavior of this type of lamellar structure under aggressive environments, like those mentioned before. Hence, the task of this work is to evaluate the effect that has the irradiation over the microstructure of the concentrated alloy Ni22at%Si. The dendritic region of the hypereutectic alloy consists of an intermetallic phase Ni3Si, whereas the interdendritic region is formed by the alternation of lamellas of solid solution α-Ni and intermetallic phase Ni3Si. Such kind of microstructure has the advantage to get information of the DII over different phases individually, and at the same time, about of the microstructure influence over the global damage in the alloy. The hypereutectic Ni22at%Si alloy was irradiated perpendicularly to its surface, with 3.66 MeV - Ni ions up to 380 dpa at 650°C in a Tandetron linear accelerator. The level of irradiation dose was chosen similar to the irradiation conditions of the next-generation nuclear reactors. The theoretical maximum depth of the DII (maximum depth of damage (MDD)) was calculated as 1.35 µm using the SRIM-2013 program; the laminar microstructure of the eutectic was simulated using the lattice parameters of the eutectic before irradiation. The experimental MDD was 1.47 µm, as determined through transmission electron microscope (TEM) images and the DII was characterized using µX-ray diffraction and TEM. The elimination of cubic phase of the intermetallic Ni3Si, the suppression of lamellae of the α-Ni phase, the generation of dislocation loops and lines, all of these changes generated by the irradiation are clear evidences that the DII was severe. Based on theoretical and experimental evidence, we propose that the amount of phases, alternate of lamellae with different chemical concentrations of silicon and lamellae spatial distribution have a direct relation with the severe evolution of the DII.

Study of the Structural Stability in Intermetallics Using Displacive Transformation Paths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sob, M.; Wang, L. G.; Vitek, V.

1997-03-01

Relative structural stability of TiAl, FeAl, NiAl and NiTi is studied by investigating displacive phase transformation paths. These include the well known tetragonal (Bain's) and trigonal deformation paths which correspond to large homogeneous straining, and also more complex paths that include the shuffling of atomic planes. The results of full-potential APW total energy calculations show that all higher-energy cubic structures studied are locally unstable with respect to some deformation modes. There may or may not be symmetry-dictated energy extrema corresponding to cubic lattices depending on the atomic ordering. However, other energy extrema that are not imposed by symmetry requirements occur along the transformation paths. Configurations corresponding to energy minima may represent metastable structures that can play an important role in interfaces and other extended defects.

Microstructure Analysis of Ti-xPt Alloys and the Effect of Pt Content on the Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Behavior of Ti Alloys

PubMed Central

Song, Ho-Jun; Han, Mi-Kyung; Jeong, Hyeon-Gyeong; Lee, Yong-Tai; Park, Yeong-Joon

2014-01-01

The microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion behavior of binary Ti-xPt alloys containing 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt% Pt were investigated in order to develop new Ti-based dental materials possessing superior properties than those of commercially pure titanium (cp-Ti). All of the Ti-xPt (x = 5, 10, 15, 20) alloys showed hexagonal α-Ti structure with cubic Ti3Pt intermetallic phase. The mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of Ti-xPt alloys were sensitive to the Pt content. The addition of Pt contributed to hardening of cp-Ti and to improving its oxidation resistance. Electrochemical results showed that the Ti-xPt alloys exhibited superior corrosion resistance than that of cp-Ti. PMID:28788660

Effect of iron-intermetallics and porosity on tensile and impact properties of aluminum-silicon-copper and aluminum-silicon-magnesium cast alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Zheyuan

Aluminum-silicon (Al-Si) alloys are an important class of materials that constitute the majority of aluminum cast parts produced, due to their superior properties and excellent casting characteristics. Within this family of alloys, Al-Si-Cu and Al-Si-Mg cast alloys are frequently employed in automotive applications. The commercially popular 319 and 356 alloys, representing these two alloy systems, were selected for study in the present work, with the aim of investigating the effect of iron intermetallics and porosity on the alloy performance. This was carried out through a study of the tensile and impact properties, these being two of the important mechanical properties used in design calculations. Iron, through the precipitation of second phase intermetallic constituents, in particular the platelike beta-Al5FeSi phase, is harmful to the alloy properties. Likewise, gas- or shrinkage porosity in castings is also detrimental to the mechanical properties. By determining the optimum alloying, melt processing and solidification parameters (viz., Fe content, Sr modification and cooling rate) required to minimize the harmful effects of porosity and iron intermetallics, and studying their role on the fracture behavior, the fracture mechanism in the alloys could be determined. Castings were prepared from both industrial and experimental 319.2, B319.2 and A356.2 alloy melts, containing Fe levels of 0.2--1.0 wt%. Sr-modified (˜200 ppm) melts were also prepared for each alloy Fe level. The end-chilled refractory mold used provided directional solidification and a range of cooling rates (or dendrite arm spacings, DAS) within the same casting. Tensile and impact test samples machined from specimen blanks sectioned from the castings at various heights above the chill end provided DASs of 23--85mum. All samples were T6-heat-treated before testing. Tests were carried out employing Instron Universal and Instrumented Charpy testing machines. Optical microscopy, image analysis, SEM and EPMA techniques were used for microstructural and fracture analysis. The results show that the highest cooling rate (23 mum DAS) is the most significant parameter controlling the size and distribution of the beta-Al 5FeSi phase and porosity in the unmodified 319.2 and A356.2 alloys. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Brittle intermetallic compound makes ultrastrong low-density steel with large ductility.

PubMed

Kim, Sang-Heon; Kim, Hansoo; Kim, Nack J

2015-02-05

Although steel has been the workhorse of the automotive industry since the 1920s, the share by weight of steel and iron in an average light vehicle is now gradually decreasing, from 68.1 per cent in 1995 to 60.1 per cent in 2011 (refs 1, 2). This has been driven by the low strength-to-weight ratio (specific strength) of iron and steel, and the desire to improve such mechanical properties with other materials. Recently, high-aluminium low-density steels have been actively studied as a means of increasing the specific strength of an alloy by reducing its density. But with increasing aluminium content a problem is encountered: brittle intermetallic compounds can form in the resulting alloys, leading to poor ductility. Here we show that an FeAl-type brittle but hard intermetallic compound (B2) can be effectively used as a strengthening second phase in high-aluminium low-density steel, while alleviating its harmful effect on ductility by controlling its morphology and dispersion. The specific tensile strength and ductility of the developed steel improve on those of the lightest and strongest metallic materials known, titanium alloys. We found that alloying of nickel catalyses the precipitation of nanometre-sized B2 particles in the face-centred cubic matrix of high-aluminium low-density steel during heat treatment of cold-rolled sheet steel. Our results demonstrate how intermetallic compounds can be harnessed in the alloy design of lightweight steels for structural applications and others.

Silver plating ensures reliable diffusion bonding of dissimilar metals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1967-01-01

Dissimilar metals are reliably joined by diffusion bonding when the surfaces are electroplated with silver. The process involves cleaning and etching, anodization, silver striking, and silver plating with a conventional plating bath. It minimizes the formation of detrimental intermetallic phases and provides greater tolerance of processing parameters.

Atom probe study of B2 order and A2 disorder of the FeCo matrix in an Fe-Co-Mo-alloy.

PubMed

Turk, C; Leitner, H; Schemmel, I; Clemens, H; Primig, S

2017-07-01

The physical and mechanical properties of intermetallic alloys can be tailored by controlling the degree of order of the solid solution by means of heat treatments. FeCo alloys with an appropriate composition exhibit an A2-disorder↔B2-order transition during continuous cooling from the disordered bcc region. The study of atomic order in intermetallic alloys by diffraction and its influence on the material properties is well established, however, investigating magnetic FeCo-based alloys by conventional methods such as X-ray diffraction is quite challenging. Thus, the imaging of ordered FeCo-nanostructures needs to be done with high resolution techniques. Transmission electron microscopy investigations of ordered FeCo domains are difficult, due to the chemical and physical similarity of Fe and Co atoms and the ferromagnetism of the samples. In this work it will be demonstrated, that the local atomic arrangement of ordered and disordered regions in an industrial Fe-Co-Mo alloy can be successfully imaged by atom probe measurements supported by field ion microscopy and transmission Kikuchi diffraction. Furthermore, a thorough atom probe parameter study will be presented and field evaporation artefacts as a function of crystallographic orientation in Fe-Co-samples will be discussed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Plastic behavior of two-phase intermetallic compounds based on L1{sub 2}-type (Al,Cr){sub 3}Ti

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Park, J.Y.; Wee, D.M.; Oh, M.H.

Plastic behavior of two-phase intermetallic compounds based on L1{sub 2}-type (Al,Cr){sub 3}Ti was investigated using compression test at R.T. and 77K. L1{sub 2} single phase alloys and two-phase alloys consisting of mainly L1{sub 2} phase and a few or 20% (mole percent) second phases were selected from Al-Ti-Cr phase diagram. In general, compared with L1{sub 2} single phase, two-phase alloys consisting of 20% second phase showed relatively high yield strength and poor ductility. Among the alloys, however, Al-21Ti-23Cr alloy consisting of 20% Cr{sub 2}Al phase showed available ductility as well as high yield strength. Plastic behavior of L1{sub 2} singlemore » phase alloys and two-phase alloys consisting of a few Cr{sub 2}Al was also investigated. Homogenization of arc melted ingots substantially reduced the amount of second phases but introduced extensive pore. When Cr content increased in L1{sub 2} single phase alloys after the homogenization, the volume fraction of pores in the alloys decreased, and no residual porosity was observed in two-phase alloys consisting of a few% Cr{sub 2}Al phase. Environmental effect on the ductility of the alloys was investigated using compression test at different strain rates (1.2 {times} 10{sup {minus}4}/s and 1.2 {times} 10{sup {minus}2}/s). Environmental embrittlement was least significant in Al-25Ti-10Cr alloy consisting of L1{sub 2} single phase among the alloys tested in this study. However, based on the combined estimation of the pore formation, environmental embrittlement and ingot cast structure, it could be supposed that Al-21Ti-23Cr alloy consisting of 20% Cr{sub 2}Al as a second phase is expected to show the best tensile elongation behavior among the materials tested.« less

High-power Laser Welding of Thick Steel-aluminum Dissimilar Joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lahdo, Rabi; Springer, André; Pfeifer, Ronny; Kaierle, Stefan; Overmeyer, Ludger

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a worldwide reduction of CO2-emissions is indispensable to avoid global warming. Besides the automotive sector, lightweight construction is also of high interest for the maritime industry in order to minimize CO2-emissions. Using aluminum, the weight of ships can be reduced, ensuring lower fuel consumption. Therefore, hybrid joints of steel and aluminum are of great interest to the maritime industry. In order to provide an efficient lap joining process, high-power laser welding of thick steel plates (S355, t = 5 mm) and aluminum plates (EN AW-6082, t = 8 mm) is investigated. As the weld seam quality greatly depends on the amount of intermetallic phases within the joint, optimized process parameters and control are crucial. Using high-power laser welding, a tensile strength of 10 kN was achieved. Based on metallographic analysis, hardness tests, and tensile tests the potential of this joining method is presented.

Prediction of novel alloy phases of Al with Sc or Ta

PubMed Central

Bilić, Ante; Gale, Julian D.; Gibson, Mark A.; Wilson, Nick; McGregor, Kathie

2015-01-01

Using the evolutionary optimization algorithm, as implemented in the USPEX crystal predictor program, and first principles total energy calculations, the compositional phase diagrams for Al-Sc and Al-Ta alloy systems at zero temperature and pressure have been calculated. In addition to the known binary intermetallic phases, new potentially stable alloys, AlSc3 and AlTa7, have been identified in the Al-poor region of the phase diagram. The dynamic and thermal stability of their lattices has been confirmed from the calculated vibrational normal mode spectra in the harmonic approximation. PMID:25950915

The study of in-situ formed alumina and aluminide intermetallic reinforced aluminum-based metal matrix composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Peng

Aluminum-based metal matrix composites (MMCs) have been widely used as structural materials in the automobile and aerospace industry due to their specific properties. In this thesis, we report the fabrication of in-situ formed alumina and aluminide intermetallic reinforced aluminum-based metal matrix composites by the displacement reactions between Al and selected metal oxides (NiO, CuO and ZnO). These MMCs were produced when the Al-20wt% NiO, Al-20wt% CuO and Al-10wt% ZnO green compacts were reaction sintered in the tube furnaces. In this work, differential thermal analysis (DTA) was performed on the green samples. The green samples were then sintered separately in different tube furnaces for 30 minutes. In order to study the reaction mechanisms, the x-ray diffractometry (XRD) was used to obtain diffraction patterns of these sintered samples, the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) were used to study the microstructures of these samples. The elemental quantitative compositions of samples were determined by the energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDX). In order to study the effect of cooling rate on the samples, the green samples were further sintered to 1000°C and cooled down to room temperature in different conditions: by furnace-cooling, air-quenching, oil-quenching or NaCl-solution-quenching. The SEM, TEM and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were conducted to investigate their microstructures. A microhardness tester was used to measure the hardness values of these samples. It was found that during sintering of the Al-20wt% NiO green sample, displacement reaction between Al and NiO initially occurred in solid-solid form and was soon halted by its products that separated the NiO particles from the Al matrix. The reaction then resumed in solid-liquid form as the temperature increased to the eutectic temperature of Al3Ni-Al when liquid (Al, Ni) phase appeared in the sample. After cooling, Al2O 3 particles, Al3Ni proeutectic phase and fiber-like Al 3Ni-Al eutectic were found in the sintered Al-MMC sample. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Decagonal quasicrystal and related crystalline phases in Mn-Ga alloys with 52 to 63 a/o Ga

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, J. S.; Kuo, K. H.

1997-03-01

A decagonal quasicrystal (DQC) and six related intermetallic phases with large unit cells have been found in binary Mn-Ga alloys with 52 to 63 at. pct Ga by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM). As does the Al-Mn DQC, the Ga-Mn DQC also has a periodicity of 1.25 nm along its tenfold axis. However, its Mn content, determined by electron microprobe X-ray analysis (about 45 to 50 at. pct Mn), is much higher than that of the Al-Mn DQC (about 20 to 30 at. pct Mn). The compositions of the intermetallic phases are about 53, 56, 58, and 62 at. pct Ga, corresponding respectively to the unknown structures of MnGa (50.7 to 53.4 at. pct Ga), Mn5Ga6 (55 at pct Ga), Mn5Ga7 (57.9 at. pct Ga), and Mn3Ga5 (62.9 at. pct Ga) given in the binary Mn-Ga phase diagram ( Metals Hand-book, T.B. Massalski, J.L. Murray, L.H. Benneft, and H. Baker, eds., ASM, Metals Park, OH, 1986, vol. 2, p. 1144). Their lattice types have been determined by selected area electron diffraction. The ferromagnetic Mn3Ga5 is tetragonal, a=1.25 nm and c=2.50 nm; Mn5Ga7 is orthorhombic, a=4.57 nm, b=1.25 nm, and c=1.44 nm; Mn5Ga6 has two different but closely related orthorhombic unit cells, a=1.26 nm, b=1.25 nm, and c=1.48 nm as well as a=0.77 nm, b=1.25 nm, and c=2.36 nm; MnGa also has two different and related unit cells, one orthorhombic with a=2.04 nm, b=1.25 nm, and c=1.48 nm and the other monoclinic with a=2.59 nm, b=1.25 nm, c=1.15 nm, and β≈=110 deg. All these orthorhombic phases have b=1.25 nm, being the same as the periodicity along the tenfold axis of the Ga-Mn and Al-Mn DQCs. Moreover, all these six intermetallic phases give electron diffraction patterns displaying a pseudo-tenfold distribution of strong diffraction spots and are considered to be crystalline approximants of the Ga-Mn DQC.

Optimization of Aluminium-to-Magnesium Ultrasonic Spot Welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panteli, A.; Chen, Y.-C.; Strong, D.; Zhang, Xiaoyun; Prangnell, P. B.

2012-03-01

The ability to join dissimilar materials in the automotive industry will result in more efficient multimaterial structures. However, welding of aluminium (Al) to magnesium (Mg) alloys is problematic because of the rapid formation of brittle intermetallic phases at the weld interface. Ultrasonic welding (USW) is a solid-state joining technology that may offer a potential solution, but USW of Al to Mg is currently not well understood. Here, we have investigated the effect of process variables and energy input on joint formation between Al-6111 and Mg-AZ31 alloys, and we report on the optimum welding conditions, heat generation, and the formation of a significant intermetallic reaction layer. Furthermore, the factors influencing the interface reaction rate and the advantages of precoating the Mg with Al are discussed.

Effect of Si on Fe-rich intermetallic formation and mechanical properties of heat-treated Al–Cu–Mn–Fe alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yuliang; Zhang, Weiwen; Yang, Chao; Zhang, Datong; Wang, Zhi

2018-04-01

The effect of Si on Fe-rich intermetallics formation and mechanical properties of heat-treated squeeze cast Al-5.0Cu-0.6Mn-0.7Fe alloy was investigated. Our results show that increasing Si content promotes the formation of Al15(FeMn)3(SiCu)2 (${\\alpha}$-Fe), and varying the morphology of T (Al20Cu3Mn2) where the size decreases and the amount increases. The major reason is that Si promotes heterogeneous nucleation of the intermetallics leading to finer precipitates. Si addition significantly enhances ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of the alloys. The strengthening effect is mainly owing to the dispersoid strengthening by increasing volume fraction of T phase and less harmful ${\\alpha}$-Fe with a compact structure, which make the cracks more difficult to initiate and propagation during tensile test. The squeeze cast Al-5.0Cu-0.6Mn-0.7Fe alloy with 1.1% Si shows significantly improved mechanical properties than the alloy without Si addition, which has tensile strength of 386 MPa, yield strength of 280 MPa and elongation of 8.6%.

Investigations in Producing Porous NiAl by Combustion Synthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Songming

In recent years, nickel aluminide (NiAl) intermetallic foam, which combines the advantages of nickel-based alloy and metallic foam, has attracted great attention due to its extraordinary properties. In this present work, nickel aluminide (NiAl) foam has been reactively processed from elemental powder (nickel and aluminium) with different types and percentage of volume of a foaming agent (TiH2 or CaCO3), using a combustion synthesis (CS) approach. Most of the previous research has focused on producing close-cell NiAl intermetallic foam; however, this paper presents a new combustion synthesis process to fabricate a hybrid open-cell and close-cell NiAl intermetallic foam. Mixed elemental powder was compacted at moderate pressure generating closed and open porosity with green compact; as a result, part of the liberated gas could escape from the sample, which resulted in producing open-cell pores, in addition, closed cell pores in the product. The effect of foaming agent type and volume percentage on the product is discussed. An increase in volume percentage of TiH2 was found to have beneficial effects on increasing porosity; however, with the increase of volume percentage of CaCO3, there is a big drop in porosity because the low viscosity under high temperature makes more liberated gas escape and pores collapse. According to XRD and EDX analysis, despite the present of multiple phases in samples, NiAl was still the major phase. Hardness measurement shows that high hardness value was obtained at sample of low grain size, hardness value increases with decreasing grain size.

Epitaxial growth of Al9Ir2 intermetallic compound on Al(100): Mechanism and interface structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kadok, J.; Pussi, K.; Šturm, S.; Ambrožič, B.; Gaudry, É.; de Weerd, M.-C.; Fournée, V.; Ledieu, J.

2018-04-01

The adsorption of Ir adatoms on Al(100) has been investigated under various exposures and temperature conditions. The experimental and theoretical results reveal a diffusion of Ir adatoms within the Al(100) surface selvedge already at 300 K. Above 593 K, two domains of a (√{5 }×√{5 }) R 26 .6∘ phase are identified by low energy electron diffraction (LEED) and scanning tunneling microscopy measurements. This phase corresponds to the initial growth of an Al9Ir2 compound at the Al(100) surface. The Al9Ir2 intermetallic domains are terminated by bulklike pure Al layers. The structural stability of Al9Ir2 (001) grown on Al(100) has been analyzed by density functional theory based calculations. Dynamical LEED analysis is consistent with an Ir adsorption leading to the growth of an Al9Ir2 intermetallic compound. We propose that the epitaxial relationship Al9Ir2(001 ) ∥Al (100) and Al9Ir2[100 ] ∥Al [031 ]/[013 ] originates from a matching of Al atomic arrangements present both on Al(100) and on pure Al(001) layers present in the Al9Ir2 compound. Finally, the interface between Al9Ir2 precipitates and the Al matrix has been characterized by transmission electron microscopy measurements. The cross-sectional observations are consistent with the formation of Al9Ir2 (001) compounds. These measurements indicate an important Ir diffusion within Al(100) near the surface region. The coherent interface between Al9Ir2 and the Al matrix is sharp.

One-pot solvothermal synthesis of ordered intermetallic Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} as stable and efficient electrocatalyst towards direct alcohol fuel cell application

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jana, Rajkumar; Peter, Sebastian C., E-mail: sebastiancp@jncasr.ac.in

Ordered intermetallic Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} nanoparticles have been synthesized by superhydride reduction of K{sub 2}PtCl{sub 4} and InCl{sub 3}.xH{sub 2}O precursors using facile, one-pot solvothermal method. We report surfactant free solvothermal synthesis of a novel ordered Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} intermetallic nanoparticles for the first time. The structure and morphology of the catalyst has been confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrometry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The electrocatalytic properties of the catalysts have been investigated by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The as prepared Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} catalyst exhibit far superior electrocatalytic activity andmore » stability towards alcohol oxidation over commercial Pt/C. The specific activity of as synthesized catalyst was found to be ~3.2 and ~2.3 times higher than commercial Pt/C for methanol and ethanol oxidation, respectively. This improved activity and durability of the Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} nanoparticles can make the catalyst an ideal catalyst candidate for direct alcohol fuel cell. - Graphical abstract: The ordered structure of Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} nanoparticles synthesized by solvothermal method has confirmed through XRD and TEM. Cyclic voltametry and chronoamperometry showed improved catalytic activity and stability compared to commercial Pt/C. - Highlights: • Ordered Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} nanoparticles were synthesized by solvothermal method. • Electrooxidation of alcohols on Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} catalyst was investigated in acidic medium. • Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} catalyst has superior catalytic activity compared to commercial Pt/C. • Pt{sub 2}In{sub 3} catalyst exhibited much higher stability than commercial Pt/C.« less

Electronic Structure of GdCuGe Intermetallic Compound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lukoyanov, A. V.; Knyazev, Yu. V.; Kuz'min, Yu. I.

2018-04-01

The electronic structure of GdCuGe intermetallic compound has been studied. Spin-polarized energy spectrum calculations have been performed by the band method with allowance for strong electron correlations in the 4 f-shell of gadolinium ions. Antiferromagnetic ordering of GdCuGe at low temperatures has been obtained in a theoretical calculation, with the value of the effective magnetic moment of gadolinium ions reproduced in fair agreement with experimental data. The electronic density of states has been analyzed. An optical conductivity spectrum has been calculated for GdCuGe; it reveals specific features that are analogous to the ones discovered previously in the GdCuSi compound with a similar hexagonal structure.

Intermetallics for Thermal Protection Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marcos, J.

2009-01-01

Future Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLV's) will require improved Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) to achieve the ambitious goal of reducing the cost of delivering a payload to orbit by, at least, an order of magnitude. In this context, metallic materials are good candidates for their use in TPS and hot structures. Up to date, only two major type of materials have been considered and developed in Europe for such type of applications: Oxide Dispersion Strengthened (ODS) and intermetallics (ϒ-TiAl). INASMET, during last years, has been working with the orthorhombic titanium aluminides, whose specific properties are comparable, to those of ODS and ϒ-TiAl materials. The EXPERT mission represents a unique opportunity to test under re-entry conditions this material.

Growth and microstructure formation of isothermally-solidified Zircaloy-4 joints brazed by a Zr-Ti-Cu-Ni amorphous alloy ribbon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, K. H.; Lim, C. H.; Lee, J. G.; Lee, M. K.; Rhee, C. K.

2013-10-01

The microstructure and growth characteristics of Zircaloy-4 joints brazed by a Zr48Ti16Cu17Ni19 (at.%) amorphous filler metal have been investigated with regard to the controlled isothermal solidification and intermetallic formation. Two typical joints were produced depending on the isothermal brazing temperature: (1) a dendritic growth structure including bulky segregation in the central zone (at 850 °C), and (2) a homogeneous dendritic structure throughout the joint without segregation (at 890 °C). The primary α-Zr phase was solidified isothermally, nucleating to grow into a joint with a cellular or dendritic structure. Also, the continuous Zr2Ni and particulate Zr2Cu phases were formed in the segregated center zone and at the intercellular region, respectively, owing to the different solubility and atomic mobility of the solute elements (Ti, Cu, and Ni) in the α-Zr matrix. A disappearance of the central Zr2Ni phase was also rate-controlled by the outward diffusion of the Cu and Ni elements. When the detrimental Zr2Ni intermetallic phase was eliminated by a complete isothermal solidification at 890 °C, the strengths of the joints were high enough to cause yielding and fracture in the base metal, exceeding those of the bulk Zircaloy-4, at room temperature as well as at elevated temperatures (up to 400 °C).

Formation and corrosion of a 410 SS/ceramic composite

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, X.; Ebert, W. L.; Indacochea, J. E.

This study evaluates the possible use of alloy/ceramic composite waste forms to immobilize metallic and oxide waste streams generated during the electrochemical reprocessing of spent reactor fuel in a single waste form. A representative composite material AOC410 was made to evaluate the microstructure and corrosion behavior at alloy/ceramic interfaces by reacting 410 stainless steel with Zr, Mo, and a mixture of lanthanide oxides. Essentially all of the Zr reacted with lanthanide oxides to form lanthanide zirconate, which combined with the remaining lanthanide oxides to form a porous ceramic network encapsulated by alloy as a composite puck. Excess alloy formed amore » metal bead on top of the composite. The alloys in the composite and bead were both mixture of martensite grains and ferrite grains with carbide precipitates. FeCrMo intermetallic phases also precipitated in the ferrite grains in the composite part. Ferrite surrounding carbides was sensitized and the least corrosion resistant in electrochemical corrosion tests conducted in an acidic brine electrolyte; ferrite neighboring martensite grains and intermetallics corroded galvanically. The lanthanide oxide domains dissolved chemically, but lanthanide zirconate domains did not dissolve. The presence of oxide phases did not affect corrosion of the neighboring alloy phases. These results suggest the longterm corrosion of a composite waste form can be evaluated by using separate material degradation models for the alloy and ceramic phases.« less

The intermetallic formation and growth kinetics at the interface of near eutectic tin-silver-copper solder alloys and gold/nickel metallization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Mao

The formation of a one micron thick layer of an intermetallic compound between a solder alloy and a metallic substrate generally constitutes a good solder joint in an electronic device. However, if the compound grows too thick, and/or if multiple intermetallic compounds form, poor solder joint reliability may result. Thus significant interest has been focused on intermetallic compound phase selection and growth kinetics at such solder/metal interfaces. The present study focuses on one such specific problem, the formation and growth of intermetallic compounds at near eutectic Sn-Ag-Cu solder alloy/Ni interfaces. Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu solder was reflowed on Au/Ni substrates, resulting in the initial formation and growth of (CuNi)6Sn 5 at Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu /Ni interfaces. (NiCu)3Sn4 formed between the (CuNi)6Sn5 and the Ni substrate when the concentration of Cu in the liquid SnAgCu solder decreased to a critical value which depended upon temperature: 0.37, 0.31 and 0.3(wt.%) at reflow temperatures of 260°C, 245°C and 230°C respectively. The growth rate of (CuNi)6Sn5 was found to be consistent with extrapolations of a diffusion limited growth model formulated for lower temperature, solid state diffusion couples. The long range diffusion of Cu did not limit growth rates. The spalling of (CuNiAu)6Sn5 from (NiCu)3 Sn4 surfaces during reflow was also examined. When the Cu concentration in the solder decreased to approximately 0.28wt.%, the (Cu,Ni,Au) 6Sn5 was observed to spall. Compressive stress in (CuNiAu) 6Sn5 and weak adhesion between (CuNiAu)6Sn 5 and (NiCu)3Sn4 was found to cause this effect.

High strength nanostructured Al-based alloys through optimized processing of rapidly quenched amorphous precursors.

PubMed

Kim, Song-Yi; Lee, Gwang-Yeob; Park, Gyu-Hyeon; Kim, Hyeon-Ah; Lee, A-Young; Scudino, Sergio; Prashanth, Konda Gokuldoss; Kim, Do-Hyang; Eckert, Jürgen; Lee, Min-Ha

2018-01-18

We report the methods increasing both strength and ductility of aluminum alloys transformed from amorphous precursor. The mechanical properties of bulk samples produced by spark-plasma sintering (SPS) of amorphous Al-Ni-Co-Dy powders at temperatures above 673 K are significantly enhanced by in-situ crystallization of nano-scale intermetallic compounds during the SPS process. The spark plasma sintered Al 84 Ni 7 Co 3 Dy 6 bulk specimens exhibit 1433 MPa compressive yield strength and 1773 MPa maximum strength together with 5.6% plastic strain, respectively. The addition of Dy enhances the thermal stability of primary fcc Al in the amorphous Al-TM -RE alloy. The precipitation of intermetallic phases by crystallization of the remaining amorphous matrix plays important role to restrict the growth of the fcc Al phase and contributes to the improvement of the mechanical properties. Such fully crystalline nano- or ultrafine-scale Al-Ni-Co-Dy systems are considered promising for industrial application because their superior mechanical properties in terms of a combination of very high room temperature strength combined with good ductility.

Data on a Laves phase intermetallic matrix composite in situ toughened by ductile precipitates.

PubMed

Knowles, Alexander J; Bhowmik, Ayan; Purkayastha, Surajit; Jones, Nicholas G; Giuliani, Finn; Clegg, William J; Dye, David; Stone, Howard J

2017-10-01

The data presented in this article are related to the research article entitled "Laves phase intermetallic matrix composite in situ toughened by ductile precipitates" (Knowles et al.) [1]. The composite comprised a Fe 2 (Mo, Ti) matrix with bcc (Mo, Ti) precipitated laths produced in situ by an aging heat treatment, which was shown to confer a toughening effect (Knowles et al.) [1]. Here, details are given on a focused ion beam (FIB) slice and view experiment performed on the composite so as to determine that the 3D morphology of the bcc (Mo, Ti) precipitates were laths rather than needles. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (S(TEM)) micrographs of the microstructure as well as energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) maps are presented that identify the elemental partitioning between the C14 Laves matrix and the bcc laths, with Mo rejected from the matrix into laths. A TEM selected area diffraction pattern (SADP) and key is provided that was used to validate the orientation relation between the matrix and laths identified in (Knowles et al.) [1] along with details of the transformation matrix determined.

Microstructure and degradation performance of biodegradable Mg-Si-Sr implant alloys.

PubMed

Gil-Santos, Andrea; Marco, Iñigo; Moelans, Nele; Hort, Norbert; Van der Biest, Omer

2017-02-01

In this work the microstructure and degradation behavior of several as-cast alloy compositions belonging to the Mg rich corner of the Mg-Si-Sr system are presented and related. The intermetallic phases are identified and analyzed describing the microstructure evolution during solidification. It is intended in this work to obtain insight in the behavior of the ternary alloys in in vitro tests and to analyze the degradation behavior of the alloys under physiologically relevant conditions. The as-cast specimens have been exposed to immersion tests, both mass loss (ML) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP). The degradation rate (DR) have been assessed and correlated to microstructure features, impurity levels and alloy composition. The initial reactions resulted to be more severe while the degradation stabilizes with time. A higher DR is related with a high content of the Mg 17 Sr 2 phase and with the presence of coarse particles of the intermetallics Mg 2 Si, MgSiSr and MgSi 2 Sr. Specimens with a higher DR typically have higher levels of impurities and alloy contents. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Laser beam joining of material combinations for automotive applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schubert, Emil; Zerner, Ingo; Sepold, Gerd

1997-08-01

An ideal material for automotive applications would combine the following properties: high corrosion resistance, high strength, high stiffness and not at least a low material price. Today a single material is not able to meet all these requirements. Therefore, in the future different materials will be placed where they meet the requirements best. The result of this consideration is a car body with many different alloys and metals, which have to be joined to one another. BIAS is working on the development of laser based joining technologies for different material combinations, especially for thin sheets used in automotive applications. One result of the research is a joining technology for an aluminum-steel-joint. Using a Nd:YAG laser the problem of brittle intermetallic phases between these materials was overcome. Using suitable temperature-time cycles, elected by a FEM-simulation, the thickness of intermetallic phases was kept below 10 micrometers . This technology was also applied to coated steels, which were joined with different aluminum alloys. Further it is demonstrated that titanium alloys, e.g. used for racing cars, can also be joined with aluminum alloys.

The influence of temperature and humidity on printed wiring board surface finishes: Immersion tin vs organic azoles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ray, U.; Artaki, I.; Gordon, H. M.; Vianco, P. T.

1994-08-01

Substitution of lead-free solders in electronic assemblies requires changes in the conventional Sn:Pb finishes on substrates and component leads to prevent contamination of the candidate lead-free solder. Options for solderability preservative coatings on the printed wiring board include organic (azole or rosin/resin based) films and tin-based plated metallic coatings. This paper compares the solderability performance and corrosion protection effectiveness of electroless tin coatings vs organic azole films after exposure to a series of humidity and thermal cycling conditions. The solderability of immersion tin is directly related to the tin oxide growth on the surface and is not affected by the formation of SnCu intermetallic phases as long as the intermetallic phase is underneath a protective Sn layer. Thin azole films decompose upon heating in the presence of oxygen and lead to solderability degradation. Evaluations of lead-free solder pastes for surface mount assembly applications indicate that immersion tin significantly improves the spreading of Sn:Ag and Sn:Bi alloys as compared to azole surface finishes.

Improvement of Superplasticity in High-Mg Aluminum Alloys by Sacrifice of Some Room Temperature Formability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, H.; Amirkhiz, B. Shalchi; Lloyd, D. J.

2018-03-01

The mechanical properties of fully annealed Al-4.6 wt pct Mg alloys with different levels of Mn and Fe have been characterized at room and superplastic forming (SPF) temperatures. The effects of Mn and Fe on the intermetallic phase, grain structure, and cavitation were investigated and correlated to the formability at different temperatures. Although both Mn and Fe contribute to the formation of Al6(Mn,Fe) phase, which refines the grain structure by particle-stimulated nucleation and Zener pinning, their effects are different. An increasing Mn reduces the room temperature formability due to the increasing number of intermetallic particles, but significantly improves the superplasticity by fine grain size-induced grain boundary sliding. Meanwhile, the Fe makes the constituent particles very coarse, resulting in reduced formability at all temperatures due to extensive cavitation. A combination of high Mn and low Fe is therefore beneficial to SPF, while low levels of both elements are good for cold forming. Consequently, the superplasticity of high-Mg aluminum alloys can be significantly improved by modifying the chemical composition with sacrifice of some room temperature formability.

Formation of Gd-Al Alloy Films by a Molten Salt Electrochemical Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caravaca, Concha; De Córdoba, Guadalupe

2008-02-01

The electrochemistry of molten LiCl-KCl-GdCl3 at a reactive Al electrode has been studied at 723 to 823 K. Electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry and chronopotentiometry have been used in order to identify the intermetallic compounds formed. Cyclic voltammetry showed that, while at an inert W electrode GdCl3 is reduced to Gd metal in a single step at a potential close to the reduction of the solvent, at an Al electrode a shift towards more positive values occurs. This shift of the cathodic potential indicated a reduction of the activity of Gd in Al with respect to that ofW, due to the formation of alloys. The surface characterization of samples formed by both galvanostatic and potentiostatic electrolysis has shown the presence of two intermetallic compounds: GdAl3 and GdAl2. Using open-circuit chronopotentiometry it has been possible to measure the potentials at which these compounds are transformed into each other. The values of these potential plateaus, once transformed into e. f. m. values, allowed to determine the thermodynamic properties of the GdAl3 intermetallic compound.

Crystal field effects in the intermetallic R Ni3Ga9 (R =Tb , Dy, Ho, and Er) compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silva, L. S.; Mercena, S. G.; Garcia, D. J.; Bittar, E. M.; Jesus, C. B. R.; Pagliuso, P. G.; Lora-Serrano, R.; Meneses, C. T.; Duque, J. G. S.

2017-04-01

In this paper, we report temperature-dependent magnetic susceptibility, electrical resistivity, and heat-capacity experiments in the family of intermetallic compounds R Ni3Ga9 (R = Tb, Dy, Ho, and Er). Single-crystalline samples were grown using Ga self-flux method. These materials crystallize in a trigonal ErNi3Al9 -type structure with space group R 32 . They all order antiferromagnetically with TN<20 K . The anisotropic magnetic susceptibility presents large values of the ratio χeasy/χhard indicating strong crystalline electric-field (CEF) effects. The evolution of the crystal-field scheme for each R was analyzed in detail by using a spin model including anisotropic nearest-neighbor Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida interaction and the trigonal CEF Hamiltonian. Our analysis allows one to understand the distinct direction of the ordered moments along the series—the Tb-, Dy-, and Ho-based compounds have the ordered magnetic moments in the easy ab plane and the Er sample magnetization easy axis is along the c ̂ direction.

Magnetic properties and magnetocaloric effects in HoPd intermetallic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao-Jun, Mo; Jun, Shen; Xin-Qiang, Gao; Yao, Liu; Jian-Feng, Wu; Bao-Gen, Shen; Ji-Rong, Sun

2015-03-01

A large reversible magnetocaloric effect accompanied by a second order magnetic phase transition from PM to FM is observed in the HoPd compound. Under the magnetic field change of and the refrigerant capacity RC for the compound are evaluated to be 20 J/(kg · K) and 342 J/kg, respectively. In particular, large (11.3 J/(kg · K)) and RC (142 J/kg) are achieved under a low magnetic field change of 0-2 T with no thermal hysteresis and magnetic hysteresis loss. The large reversible magnetocaloric effect (both the large -ΔSM and the high RC) indicates that HoPd is a promising material for magnetic refrigeration at low temperature. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 51322605, 11104337, 51271192, and 11274357) and the Knowledge Innovation Project of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

In situ imaging of the soldering reactions in nanoscale Cu/Sn/Cu and Sn/Cu/Sn diffusion couples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Qiyue; Gao, Fan; Gu, Zhiyong; Wang, Jirui; Stach, Eric A.; Zhou, Guangwen

2018-01-01

The soldering reactions of three-segmented Sn/Cu/Sn and Cu/Sn/Cu diffusion couples are monitored by in-situ transmission electron microscopy to reveal the metallurgical reaction mechanism and the associated phase transformation pathway. For Sn/Cu/Sn diffusion couples, there is no ɛ-Cu3Sn formation due to the relatively insufficient Cu as compared to Sn. Kirkendall voids form initially in the Cu segment and then disappear due to the volume expansion associated with the continued intermetallic compound (IMC) formation as the reaction progresses. The incoming Sn atoms react with Cu to form η-Cu6Sn5, and the continuous reaction then transforms the entire nanowire to η-Cu6Sn5 grains with remaining Sn. With continued heating slightly above the melting point of Sn, an Sn-rich liquid phase forms between η-Cu6Sn5 grains. By contrast, the reaction in the Cu/Sn/Cu diffusion couples results in the intermetallic phases of both Cu3Sn and Cu6Sn5 and the development of Cu6Sn5 bulges on Cu3Sn grains. Kirkendall voids form in the two Cu segments, which grow and eventually break the nanowire into multiple segments.

Phase constitution in the interfacial region of laser penetration brazed magnesium–steel joints

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Miao, Yugang; Han, Duanfeng, E-mail: handuanfeng@gmail.com; Xu, Xiangfang

2014-07-01

The phase constitution in the interfacial region of laser penetration brazed magnesium–steel joints was investigated using electron microscopy. From the distribution of elements, the transition zone was mainly composed of elements Mg and Fe along with some Al and O. Furthermore, the transition layer consisted mainly of intermetallic compounds and metal oxides. The compounds were identified as Al-rich phases, such as Mg{sub 17}Al{sub 12}, Mg{sub 2}Al{sub 3}, FeAl and Fe{sub 4}Al{sub 13}. More noteworthy was that the thickness of the transition layer was determined by Fe–Al compounds. The presence of FeAl and Fe{sub 4}Al{sub 13} was a result of themore » complex processes that were associated with the interfacial reaction of solid steel and liquid Mg–Al alloy. - Highlights: • A technology of laser penetration brazed Mg alloy and steel has been developed. • The interface of Mg/Fe dissimilar joints was investigated using electron microscopy. • The transition layer consisted of intermetallic compounds and metal oxides. • Moreover, the thickness of transition layer was determined by Fe/Al compounds. • The presence of FeAl and Fe{sub 4}Al{sub 13} was associated with the interfacial reaction.« less

Welding bulk metallic glass using nanostructured reactive multilayer foils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trenkle, Jonathan C.

We have used Al/Ni reactive foils to weld Zr57Ti 5Cu20Ni8Al10 metallic glasses. The welds are a composite morphology comprised of glass ligaments and intermetallic AlNi (the product of the reactive foil). The presence of the presumably brittle intermetallic (in lieu of the glass) is expected to limit the mechanical properties of the welds. Based on fracture toughness measurements and the crack propagation paths, we conclude that virtually all of the toughness can be ascribed to the presence of the metallic glass ligaments. Increasing the pressure applied during welding increases the fraction of the joint made of these ligaments and so increases the fracture toughness as well. To eliminate the intermetallic from the weld altogether, we attempted to fabricate reactive mulitlayer foils that form an amorphous product by melting and cooling rapidly during a self-propagating reaction. We began with reactive foils with overall composition Zr2Ni but quickly determined that the foils did not fully melt. We then attempted to lower the melting temperature and increase the glass forming ability and the heat of mixing by adding Al and Cu. These foils again did not fully melt. Finally we systematically determined that foils of overall compositions Hf37Ni63, Ni 80P20, and Ni60P40, which are all known binary metallic glasses, will potentially melt during a self-propagating reaction. Knowledge of the phase transformations during a self-propagating reaction is necessary to engineer reactive foils for future applications. Furthermore, reactive foils provide an opportunity to study phase transformations under high heating rates not easily achievable. Characterizing the processes in the reaction zone however is challenging, requiring both temporal resolution better than ˜ 100 mus (the time required for the reaction front to pass a fixed location) and spatial resolution of < 100 mum (the approximate width of the reaction zone). Using synchrotron x-ray radiation, we have studied these phase transformations in situ in Al/Ni multilayers. Unlike previous annealing and quenching studies in these multilayers, we observed no metastable or intermediate phases.

Characterization of solid airborne particles deposited in snow in the vicinity of urban fossil fuel thermal power plant (Western Siberia).

PubMed

Talovskaya, A V; Yazikov, E G; Filimonenko, E A; Lata, J-C; Kim, J; Shakhova, T S

2017-07-20

Recognition and detailed characterization of solid particles emitted from thermal power plants into the environment is highly important due to their potential detrimental effects on human health. Snow cover is used for the identification of anthropogenic emissions in the environment. However, little is known about types, physical and chemical properties of solid airborne particles (SAP) deposited in snow around thermal power plants. The purpose of this study is to quantify and characterize in detail the traceable SAP deposited in snow near fossil fuel thermal power plant in order to identify its emissions into the environment. Applying the scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction, mineral and anthropogenic phase groups in SAP deposited in snow near the plant and in fly ash were observed. We identified quartz, albite and mullite as most abundant mineral phases and carbonaceous matter, slag and spherical particles as dominate anthropogenic phases. This is the first study reporting that zircon and anthropogenic sulphide-bearing, metal oxide-bearing, intermetallic compound-bearing and rare-earth element-bearing particles were detected in snow deposits near thermal power plant. The identified mineral and anthropogenic phases can be used as tracers for fossil fuel combustion emissions, especially with regard to their possible effect on human health.

Impact resistance and energies of intermetallic bonded diamond composites and polycrystalline diamond compacts and their comparison

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gorla, Sai Prasanth

Chemistry of intermetallic bonded diamond is studied. The impact resistance and energies of intermetallic bonded diamond is compared to current poly crystalline diamond compacts. IBD's are found to have high standards of hardness and have more impact energies absorbed. Intermetallic bonded diamond composite comprises of diamond particles dispersed in Tungsten carbide using Nickel aluminide (Ni3Al) as binder. In previous research conducted on IBD's, diamonds are successfully dispersed in intermetallic alloy of nickel aluminide and processed at 1350°C such that diamond particles remain intact without forming graphite. Composites are formed by milling, pressing the intermetallic binder and diamond particles and sintering at high temperature conditions.

High Performance Brittle Matrices and Brittle Matrix Composites. Book 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-12-31

Intermetallic Alloys II, p . 27- 38, Stoloft, Koch, Liu, and Izumi (Eds.), MRS, 1986. [6] Cahn, R.W., Siemers, P.A., Geiger, J.E., Bardhan , P ., as-reported in ref...diagram were also useful in determining the interdiffusion coefficients of Ta and Al in the P phase. This information has been used for the studies on...from supercooling of the liquid droplets. This hypothesis was supported by the cross- over of the calculated T0 curves for the a, p and y phases in the

Magneto-structural correlations in rare-earth cobalt pnictides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, Corey Mitchell

Magnetic materials are used in many applications such as credit cards, hard drives, electric motors, sensors, etc. Although a vast range of magnetic solids is available for these purposes, our ability to improve their efficiency and discover new materials remains paramount to the sustainable progress and economic profitability in many technological areas. The search for magnetic solids with improved performance requires fundamental understanding of correlations between the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of existing materials, as well as active exploratory synthesis that targets the development of new magnets. Some of the strongest permanent magnets, Nd 2Fe14B, SmCo5, and Sm2Co17, combine transition and rare-earth metals, benefiting from the strong exchange between the 4f and 3d magnetic sublattices. Although these materials have been studied in great detail, the development of novel magnets requires thorough investigation of other 3d-4 f intermetallics, in order to gain further insights into correlations between their crystal structures and magnetic properties. Among many types of intermetallic materials, ternary pnictides RCo 2Pn2 (R = La, Ce, Pr, Nd; Pn = P, As) are of interest because, despite their simple crystal structures, they contain two magnetic sublattices, exchange interactions between which may lead to rich and unprecedented magnetic behavior. Nevertheless, magnetism of these materials was studied only to a limited extent, especially as compared to the extensive studies of their silicide and germanide analogues. The ThCr2Si2 structure type, to which these ternary pnictides belong, is one of the most ubiquitous atomic arrangements encountered among intermetallic compounds. It accounts for over 1000 known intermetallics and has received increased attention due to the recently discovered FeAs-based superconductors. This dissertation is devoted to the investigation of magnetostructural relationships and anomalous magnetic behaviors in rare earth-cobalt pnictides with the ThCr2Si2 structure type, as well as to the development of new synthetic approaches to the preparation of such materials. We use iso- and aliovalent substitutions as effective tools to probe magnetostructural correlations and establish general trends in the magnetic behavior of RCo 2Pn2 phases. The modification of the electronic band structure, which correlates with the changes in the crystal structure of the material, is found to act as the driving force that dictates the magnetic properties of these itinerant systems. We demonstrate how this knowledge can be used effectively to achieve diverse magnetic properties and relate them to specific structural characteristics of materials.

Early stages of soldering reactions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lord, R.A.; Umantsev, A.

2005-09-15

An experiment on the early stages of intermetallic compound layer growth during soldering and its theoretical analysis were conducted with the intent to study the controlling factors of the process. An experimental technique based on fast dipping and pulling of a copper coupon in liquid solder followed by optical microscopy allowed the authors to study the temporal behavior of the sample on a single micrograph. The technique should be of value for different areas of metallurgy because many experiments on crystallization may be described as the growth of a layer of intermediate phase. Comparison of the experimental results with themore » theoretical calculations allowed one to identify the kinetics of dissolution as the rate-controlling mechanism on the early stages and measure the kinetic coefficient of dissolution. A popular model of intermetallic compound layer structure coarsening is discussed.« less

Development of B2 Shape Memory Intermetallics Beyond NiAl, CoNiAl and CoNiGa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gerstein, G.; Firstov, G. S.; Kosorukova, T. A.; Koval, Yu. N.; Maier, H. J.

2018-06-01

The present study describes the development of shape memory alloys based on NiAl. Initially, this system was considered a promising but unsuccessful neighbour of NiTi. Later, however, shape memory alloys like CoNiAl or CoNiGa were developed that can be considered as NiAl derivatives and already demonstrated good mechanical properties. Yet, these alloys were still inferior to NiTi in most respects. Lately, using a multi-component approach, a CoNiCuAlGaIn high entropy intermetallic compound was developed from the NiAl prototype. This new alloy featured a B2 phase and a martensitic transformation along with a remarkable strength in the as-cast state. In the long-term, this new approach might led to a breakthrough for shape memory alloys in general.

Chemical and Phase Composition of Powders Obtained by Electroerosion Dispersion from WC - Co Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Putintseva, M. N.

2004-03-01

The dependence of the chemical and phase composition of dispersed powders on the mode and medium of electroerosion dispersion and the content of cobalt in the initial alloy is considered. It is shown that the dissociation of carbon from tungsten carbide occurs even in dispersion in liquid hydrocarbon-bearing media (kerosene and industrial oils). The phase composition is primarily determined by the dispersion medium and the content of cobalt in the initial alloy. Compound tungsten-cobalt carbides and even a Co7W6 intermetallic are determined in all the powders.

Targets and methods for target preparation for radionuclide production

DOEpatents

Zhuikov, Boris L; Konyakhin, Nicolai A; Kokhanyuk, Vladimir M; Srivastava, Suresh C

2012-10-16

The invention relates to nuclear technology, and to irradiation targets and their preparation. One embodiment of the present invention includes a method for preparation of a target containing intermetallic composition of antimony Ti--Sb, Al--Sb, Cu--Sb, or Ni--Sb in order to produce radionuclides (e.g., tin-117 m) with a beam of accelerated particles. The intermetallic compounds of antimony can be welded by means of diffusion welding to a copper backing cooled during irradiation on the beam of accelerated particles. Another target can be encapsulated into a shell made of metallic niobium, stainless steel, nickel or titanium cooled outside by water during irradiation. Titanium shell can be plated outside by nickel to avoid interaction with the cooling water.

The Effects of Cold Work on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Intermetallic Strengthened Alumina-Forming Austenitic Stainless Steels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hu, B.; Trotter, G.; Baker, Ian

2015-08-01

In order to achieve energy conversion efficiencies of > 50 pct for steam turbines/boilers in power generation systems, materials are required that are both strong and corrosion-resistant at > 973 K (700 A degrees C), and economically viable. Austenitic steels strengthened with Laves phase, NiAl and Ni3Al precipitates, and alloyed with aluminum to improve oxidation resistance, are potential candidate materials for these applications. The microstructure and microchemistry of recently developed alumina-forming austenitic stainless steels have been characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and synchrotron X-ray diffraction. Different thermo-mechanical treatments were performed on these steels to improve their mechanicalmore » performance. These reduced the grain size significantly to the nanoscale (similar to 100 nm) and the room temperature yield strength to above 1000 MPa. A solutionizing anneal at 1473 K (1200 A degrees C) was found to be effective for uniformly redistributing the Laves phase precipitates that form upon casting. (C) The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society and ASM International 2015« less

Formation of amorphous materials

DOEpatents

Johnson, William L.; Schwarz, Ricardo B.

1986-01-01

Metastable amorphous or fine crystalline materials are formed by solid state reactions by diffusion of a metallic component into a solid compound or by diffusion of a gas into an intermetallic compound. The invention can be practiced on layers of metals deposited on an amorphous substrate or by intermixing powders with nucleating seed granules. All that is required is that the diffusion of the first component into the second component be much faster than the self-diffusion of the first component. The method is practiced at a temperature below the temperature at which the amorphous phase transforms into one or more crystalline phases and near or below the temperature at which the ratio of the rate of diffusion of the first component to the rate of self-diffusion is at least 10.sup.4. This anomalous diffusion criteria is found in many binary, tertiary and higher ordered systems of alloys and appears to be found in all alloy systems that form amorphous materials by rapid quenching. The method of the invention can totally convert much larger dimensional materials to amorphous materials in practical periods of several hours or less.

Degradation of Al/SiCp composites produced with rice-hull ash and aluminum cans.

PubMed

Escalera-Lozano, R; Gutiérrez, C A; Pech-Canul, M A; Pech-Canul, M I

2008-01-01

The use of recycling aluminum from beverage containers and rice-hull ash (RHA) offers to be an attractive alternative for the economic production of Al/SiCp composites. However, corrosion phenomena in the composites represent technological barriers yet to be resolved before they can be exploited to their full potential. A simple methodology involving characterization by XRD, SEM, EDX, FTIR and ICP was designed in order to investigate the causes of the rapid degradation in a humid environment of Al/SiCp composites produced with RHA and aluminum cans. Results reveal that the use of RHA was beneficial to avoid degradation through the formation and subsequent hydration of the Al4C3 phase. However with condensed moisture acting as an electrolyte, localized corrosion took place with aggressive damage manifested by the disintegration of the composite into a powdery mixture. The relevant corrosion mechanism was mainly attributed to microgalvanic coupling between the Mg2Si intermetallic compound and the matrix (although other phases such as SiC, Si, MgAl2O4 could also work as microcathodes).

Intermetallic Strengthened Alumina-Forming Austenitic Steels for Energy Applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hu, Bin; Baker, Ian

2016-03-31

In order to achieve energy conversion efficiencies of >50 % for steam turbines/boilers in power generation systems, the materials required must be strong, corrosion-resistant at high temperatures (>700°C), and economically viable. Austenitic steels strengthened with Laves phase and L1 2 precipitates, and alloyed with aluminum to improve oxidation resistance, are potential candidate materials for these applications. The creep resistance of these alloys is significantly improved through intermetallic strengthening (Laves-Fe 2Nb + L1 2-Ni 3Al precipitates) without harmful effects on oxidation resistance. Microstructural and microchemical analyses of the recently developed alumina-forming austenitic (AFA) steels (Fe-14Cr-32Ni-3Nb-3Al-2Ti-based) indicated they are strengthened by Nimore » 3Al(Ti) L1 2, NiAl B 2, Fe 2Nb Laves phase and MC carbide precipitates. Different thermomechanical treatments (TMTs) were performed on these stainless steels in an attempt to further improve their mechanical properties. The thermo-mechanical processing produced nanocrystalline grains in AFA alloys and dramatically increased their yield strength at room temperature. Unfortunately, the TMTs didn’t increase the yield strengths of AFA alloys at ≥700ºC. At these temperatures, dislocation climb is the dominant mechanism for deformation of TMT alloys according to strain rate jump tests. After the characterization of aged AFA alloys, we found that the largest strengthening effect from L1 2 precipitates can be obtained by aging for less than 24 h. The coarsening behavior of the L1 2 precipitates was not influenced by carbon and boron additions. Failure analysis and post-mortem TEM analysis were performed to study the creep failure mechanisms of these AFA steels after creep tests. Though the Laves and B2-NiAl phase precipitated along the boundaries can improve the creep properties, cracks were still initiated and propagated along the boundaries, which suggests that the boundaries are still the weaker regions for causing fracture during creep, possibly due to the presence of a precipitatefree zone. The precipitate size distribution and kinetics of precipitate growth were quantified.« less

Cyclic Deformation, Damage, and Effects of Environment in the Ni3Al Ordered Alloy at Elevated Temperature

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-03-29

restricts atomic mobility leading to slower diffusion and perhaps better creep resistance. Ordered intermetallics such as aluminides and silicides are...evaluation of the mechanical properties of these materials (specifically creep , oxidation and fatigue) must be evaluated before implementation in...rate by an order of magnitude (frcm 0.001/s to 0.01/s) doubled the fatigue life at a given plastic strain range. When tested in vacuum environments

Loading rate and test temperature effects on fracture of In Situ niobium silicide-niobium composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rigney, Joseph D.; Lewandowski, John J.

1996-10-01

Arc cast, extruded, and heat-treated in situ composites of niobium suicide (Nb5Si3) intermetallic with niobium phases (primary—Nbp and secondary—Nbs) exhibited high fracture resistance in comparison to monolithic Nb5Si3. In toughness tests conducted at 298 K and slow applied loading rates, the fracture process proceeded by the microcracking of the Nb5Si3 and plastic deformation of the Nbp and Nbs phases, producing resistance-curve behavior and toughnesses of 28 MPa√m with damage zone lengths less than 500 μm. The effects of changes in the Nbp yield strength and fracture behavior on the measured toughnesses were investigated by varying the loading rates during fracture tests at both 77 and 298 K. Quantitative fractography was utilized to completely characterize each fracture surface created at 298 K in order to determine the type of fracture mode ( i.e., dimpled, cleavage) exhibited by the Nbp. Specimens tested at either higher loading rates or lower test temperatures consistently exhibited a greater amount of cleavage fracture in the Nbp, while the Nbs, always remained ductile. However, the fracture toughness values determined from experiments spanning six orders of magnitude in loading rate at 298 and 77 K exhibited little variation, even under conditions when the majority of Nbp phases failed by cleavage at 77 K. The changes in fracture mode with increasing loading rate and/or decreasing test temperature and their effects on fracture toughness are rationalized by comparison to existing theoretical models.

Sphericity and symmetry breaking in the formation of Frank–Kasper phases from one component materials

DOE PAGES

Lee, Sangwoo; Leighton, Chris; Bates, Frank S.

2014-11-05

Frank–Kasper phases are tetrahedrally packed structures occurring in numerous materials, from elements to intermetallics to self-assembled soft materials. They exhibit complex manifolds of Wigner–Seitz cells with many-faceted polyhedra, forming an important bridge between the simple close-packed periodic and quasiperiodic crystals. The recent discovery of the Frank–Kasper σ-phase in diblock and tetrablock polymers stimulated the experiments reported here on a poly(isoprene- b-lactide) diblock copolymer melt. Thus, analysis of small-angle X-ray scattering and mechanical spectroscopy exposes an undiscovered competition between the tendency to form self-assembled particles with spherical symmetry, and the necessity to fill space at uniform density within the framework imposedmore » by the lattice. We thus deduce surprising analogies between the symmetry breaking at the body-centered cubic phase to σ-phase transition in diblock copolymers, mediated by exchange of mass, and the symmetry breaking in certain metals and alloys (such as the elements Mn and U), mediated by exchange of charge. Similar connections are made between the role of sphericity in real space for polymer systems, and the role of sphericity in reciprocal space for metallic systems such as intermetallic compounds and alloys. These findings establish new links between disparate materials classes, provide opportunities to improve the understanding of complex crystallization by building on synergies between hard and soft matter, and, perhaps most significantly, challenge the view that the symmetry breaking required to form reduced symmetry structures (possibly even quasiperiodic crystals) requires particles with multiple predetermined shapes and/or sizes.« less

Sphericity and symmetry breaking in the formation of Frank–Kasper phases from one component materials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lee, Sangwoo; Leighton, Chris; Bates, Frank S.

Frank–Kasper phases are tetrahedrally packed structures occurring in numerous materials, from elements to intermetallics to self-assembled soft materials. They exhibit complex manifolds of Wigner–Seitz cells with many-faceted polyhedra, forming an important bridge between the simple close-packed periodic and quasiperiodic crystals. The recent discovery of the Frank–Kasper σ-phase in diblock and tetrablock polymers stimulated the experiments reported here on a poly(isoprene- b-lactide) diblock copolymer melt. Thus, analysis of small-angle X-ray scattering and mechanical spectroscopy exposes an undiscovered competition between the tendency to form self-assembled particles with spherical symmetry, and the necessity to fill space at uniform density within the framework imposedmore » by the lattice. We thus deduce surprising analogies between the symmetry breaking at the body-centered cubic phase to σ-phase transition in diblock copolymers, mediated by exchange of mass, and the symmetry breaking in certain metals and alloys (such as the elements Mn and U), mediated by exchange of charge. Similar connections are made between the role of sphericity in real space for polymer systems, and the role of sphericity in reciprocal space for metallic systems such as intermetallic compounds and alloys. These findings establish new links between disparate materials classes, provide opportunities to improve the understanding of complex crystallization by building on synergies between hard and soft matter, and, perhaps most significantly, challenge the view that the symmetry breaking required to form reduced symmetry structures (possibly even quasiperiodic crystals) requires particles with multiple predetermined shapes and/or sizes.« less

Effect of thermal treatment on the corrosion resistance of Type 316L stainless steel exposed in supercritical water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiao, Y.; Zheng, W.; Guzonas, D. A.; Cook, W. G.; Kish, J. R.

2015-09-01

There are still unknown aspects about the growth mechanism of oxide scales formed on candidate stainless steel fuel cladding materials during exposure in supercritical water (SCW) under the conditions relevant to the Canadian supercritical water-cooled reactor (SCWR). The tendency for intermetallic precipitates to form within the grains and on grain boundaries during prolonged exposure at high temperatures represents an unknown factor to corrosion resistance, since they tend to bind alloyed Cr. The objective of this study was to better understand the extent to which intermetallic precipitates affects the mode and extent of corrosion in SCW. Type 316L stainless steel, used as a model Fe-Cr-Ni-Mo alloy, was exposed to 25 MPa SCW at 550 °C for 500 h in a static autoclave for this purpose. Mechanically-abraded samples were tested in the mill-annealed (MA) and a thermally-treated (TT) condition. The thermal treatment was conducted at 815 °C for 1000 h to precipitate the carbide (M23C6), chi (χ), laves (η) and sigma (σ) phases. It was found that although relatively large intermetallic precipitates formed at the scale/alloy interface locally affected the oxide scale formation, their discontinuous formation did not affect the short-term overall apparent corrosion resistance.

Secondary Al-Si-Mg High-pressure Die Casting Alloys with Enhanced Ductility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bösch, Dominik; Pogatscher, Stefan; Hummel, Marc; Fragner, Werner; Uggowitzer, Peter J.; Göken, Mathias; Höppel, Heinz Werner

2015-03-01

Al-Si-Mg-based secondary cast alloys are attractive candidates for thin-walled high-pressure die castings for applications in the transport industry. The present study investigates the effect of manganese additions at high cooling rates on microstructure, mechanical properties, and on the dominating fracture mechanisms of alloy AlSi10Mg with an elevated iron concentration. Systematic variations of the Mn content from 0.20 to 0.85 wt pct at a constant Fe content of 0.55 wt pct illustrate the key changes in type, phase fraction, and shape of the Fe-containing intermetallic phases, and the corresponding influence on the alloy's ductility. For high-pressure die casting (HPDC), an optimal range of the Mn content between 0.40 and 0.60 wt pct, equivalent to a Mn/Fe ratio of approximately 1, has been identified. At these Mn and Fe contents, the high cooling rates obtained in HPDC result in the formation of fine and homogeneously distributed α-Al15(Fe,Mn)3Si2 phase, and crack initiation is transferred from AlFeSi intermetallics to eutectic silicon. The study interprets the microstructure-property relationship in the light of thermodynamic calculations which reveal a significant increase in undercooling of the α-Al15(Fe,Mn)3Si2 phase with increased Mn content. It concludes that the interdependence of the well-defined Mn/Fe ratio and the high cooling rate in HPDC can generate superior ductility in secondary AlSi10Mg cast alloys.

Analysis of the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Titanium-Based Composites Reinforced by Secondary Phases and B4C Particles Produced via Direct Hot Pressing

PubMed Central

Montealegre-Melendez, Isabel; Arévalo, Cristina; Ariza, Enrique; Rubio-Escudero, Cristina; Kitzmantel, Michael; Neubauer, Erich

2017-01-01

In the last decade, titanium metal matrix composites (TMCs) have received considerable attention thanks to their interesting properties as a consequence of the clear interface between the matrix and the reinforcing phases formed. In this work, TMCs with 30 vol % of B4C are consolidated by hot pressing. This technique is a powder metallurgy rapid process. Incorporation of the intermetallic to the matrix, 20 vol % (Ti-Al), is also evaluated. Here, the reinforcing phases formed by the reaction between the titanium matrix and the ceramic particles, as well as the intermetallic addition, promote substantial variations to the microstructure and to the properties of the fabricated composites. The influences of the starting materials and the consolidation temperature (900 °C and 1000 °C) are investigated. By X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy analysis, the in-situ-formed phases in the matrix and the residual ceramic particles were studied. Furthermore, mechanical properties are studied through tensile and bending tests in addition to other properties, such as Young’s modulus, hardness, and densification of the composites. The results show the significant effect of temperature on the microstructure and on the mechanical properties from the same starting powder. Moreover, the Ti-Al addition causes variation in the interface between the reinforcement and the matrix, thereby affecting the behaviour of the TMCs produced at the same temperature. PMID:29077066

Role of 4 f electrons in crystallographic and magnetic complexity

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pathak, Arjun K.; Paudyal, Durga; Mudryk, Yaroslav

2017-08-09

Here, the functionality of many magnetic materials critically depends on first manipulating and then taking advantage of highly nonlinear changes of properties that occur during phase transformations. Unique to lanthanides, property-defining 4f electrons are highly localized and, as commonly accepted, play little to no role in chemical bonding. Yet here we demonstrate that the competition between 4f-electron energy landscapes of Dy (4f 9) and Er (4f 11) is the key element of the puzzle required to explain complex interplay of magnetic and structural features observed in Er 1–xDy xCo 2, and likely many other mixed lanthanide systems. Unlike the parentmore » binaries—DyCo 2 and ErCo 2—Er 1–xDy xCo 2 exhibits two successive magnetostructural transitions: a first order at TC, followed by a second order in the ferrimagnetically ordered state. Supported by first-principles calculations, our results offer new opportunities for targeted design of magnetic materials with multiple functionalities, and also provide a critical insight into the role of 4f electrons in controlling the magnetism and structure of lanthanide intermetallics.« less

Friction stir processing of an aluminum-magnesium alloy with pre-placing elemental titanium powder: In-situ formation of an Al{sub 3}Ti-reinforced nanocomposite and materials characterization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Khodabakhshi, F., E-mail: farzadkhodabakhshi83@gmail.com; Simchi, A.; Institute for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Sharif University of Technology, P.O. Box 11365-9466, Azadi Avenue, 14588 Tehran

A fine-grained Al–Mg/Al{sub 3}Ti nanocomposite was fabricated by friction stir processing (FSP) of an aluminum-magnesium (AA5052) alloy with pre-placed titanium powder in the stirred zone. Microstructural evolutions and formation of intermetallic phases were analyzed by optical and electron microscopic techniques across the thickness section of the processed sheets. The microstructure of the nanocomposite consisted of a fine-grained aluminum matrix (1.5 µm), un-reacted titanium particles (<40 µm) and reinforcement particles of Al{sub 3}Ti (<100 nm) and Mg{sub 2}Si (<100 nm). Detailed microstructural analysis indicated solid-state interfacial reactions between the aluminum matrix and micro-sized titanium particles to form Al{sub 3}Ti intermetallic phase.more » The hard inclusions were then fractured and re-distributed in the metal matrix by the severe thermo-mechanical conditions imposed by FSP. Evaluation of mechanical properties by hardness measurement and uniaxial tensile test determined significant enhancement in the mechanical strength (by 2.5 order of magnetite) with a high ductility (~22%). Based on a dislocation-based model analysis, it was suggested that the strength enhancement was governed by grain refinement and the presence of hard inclusions (4 vol%) in the metal matrix. Fractographic studies also showed a ductile-brittle fracture mode for the nanocomposite compared with fully ductile rupture of the annealed alloy as well as the FSPed specimen without pre-placing titanium particles. - Highlights: • FSP was employed to fabricate in situ nanocomposite. • The AA5052 Al alloy with pre-placed micro-sized Ti particles were utilized. • The structural analysis was revealed that the in situ formation of Al{sub 3}Ti nanophase. • The SZ grain structure was refined by PSN and ZHP mechanisms during DRX. • Hardness and tensile strength were improved up to ~2.5 times with a good ductility.« less

Isothermal Ageing of SnAgCu Solder Alloys: Three-Dimensional Morphometry Analysis of Microstructural Evolution and Its Effects on Mechanical Response

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maleki, Milad; Cugnoni, Joë; Botsis, John

2014-04-01

Due to the high homologous temperature and fast cooling rates, the microstructures of SnAgCu (SAC) solders are in a meta-stable state in most applications, which is the cause of significant microstructural evolution and continuous variation in the mechanical behavior of the joints during service. The link between microstructures evolution and deformation behavior of Sn-4.0Ag-0.5Cu solder during isothermal ageing is investigated. The evolution of the microstructures in SAC solders are visualized at different scales in 3D by using a combination of synchrotron x-ray and focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy tomography techniques at different states of ageing. The results show that, although the grain structure, morphology of dendrites, and overall volume fraction of intermetallics remain almost constant during ageing, considerable coarsening occurs in the Ag3Sn and Cu6Sn5 phases to lower the interfacial energy. The change in the morphometrics of sub-micron intermetallics is quantified by 3D statistical analyses and the kinetic of coarsening is discussed. The mechanical behavior of SAC solders is experimentally measured and shows a continuous reduction in the yield resistance of solder during ageing. For comparison, the mechanical properties and grain structure of β-tin are evaluated at different annealing conditions. Finally, the strengthening effect due to the intermetallics at different ageing states is evaluated by comparing the deformation behaviors of SAC solder and β-tin with similar grain size and composition. The relationship between the morphology and the strengthening effect due to intermetallics particles is discussed and the causes for the strength degradation in SAC solder during ageing are identified.

Assessment of phase constitution on the Al-rich region of rapidly solidified Al-Co-Fe-Cr alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wolf, W., E-mail: witorw@gmail.com

The formation of quasicrystalline approximants in rapidly solidified Al-Co-Fe-Cr alloys was investigated. Alloys of atomic composition Al{sub 71}Co{sub 13}Fe{sub 8}Cr{sub 8}, Al{sub 77}Co{sub 11}Fe{sub 6}Cr{sub 6} and Al{sub 76}Co{sub 19}Fe{sub 4}Cr{sub 1} were produced using melt spinning and arc melting methods and their microstructural characterization was carried out by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Up to the present there is no consensus in the literature regarding the formation of quasicrystalline phase or quasicrystalline approximants in the Al{sub 71}Co{sub 13}Fe{sub 8}Cr{sub 8} alloy. This work presents, for the first time, a detailed structural characterization of selected alloysmore » in the Al-Co-Fe-Cr system close to the atomic composition Al{sub 71}Co{sub 13}Fe{sub 8}Cr{sub 8}. The results indicated the samples to be composed, mostly, by two intermetallic phases, which are quaternary extensions of Al{sub 5}Co{sub 2} and Al{sub 13}Co{sub 4} and are quasicrystalline approximants. Although the Al{sub 5}Co{sub 2} phase has already been reported in the Al{sub 71}Co{sub 13}Fe{sub 8}Cr{sub 8} alloy, the presence of the monoclinic Al{sub 13}Co{sub 4} is now identified for the first time in the as cast state. In the binary Al-Co system a quasicrystalline phase is known to form in a rapidly solidified alloy with composition close to the monoclinic and orthorhombic Al{sub 13}Co{sub 4} phases. This binary quasicrystalline phase presents an average valence electron per atom (e/a) between 1.7 and 1.9; thus, in addition to the Al{sub 71}Co{sub 13}Fe{sub 8}Cr{sub 8} alloy, the compositions Al{sub 77}Co{sub 11}Fe{sub 6}Cr{sub 6} and Al{sub 76}Co{sub 19}Fe{sub 4}Cr{sub 1} were chosen to be within the region of formation of the quaternary extension of the Al{sub 13}Co{sub 4} phase and also within the (e/a) of 1.7 to 1.9. However, no quasicrystalline phase is present in any of the studied alloys. The Al-Co-Fe-Cr system, around the compositions studied, is composed of quaternary extensions of Al-Co intermetallic phases, which present solubility of Fe and Cr at Co atomic sites. - Highlights: •The Al rich region of the AlCoFeCr system is studied concerning phase formation on rapidly solidified alloys. •The alloys were composed mostly by quaternary extensions of Al-Co intermetallic phases. •Al{sub 5}Co{sub 2} and Al{sub 13}Co{sub 4} were the major phases observed in the alloys and are approximants of a quasicrystalline phase. •No quasicrystalline phase was observed in the Al{sub 71}Co{sub 13}Fe{sub 8}Cr{sub 8} composition.« less

Development of monolithic nuclear fuels for RERTR by hot isostatic pressing

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jue, J.-F.; Park, Blair; Chapple, Michael

2008-07-15

The RERTR Program (Reduced Enrichment for Research and Test Reactors) is developing advanced nuclear fuels for high power test reactors. Monolithic fuel design provides a higher uranium loading than that of the traditional dispersion fuel design. In order to bond monolithic fuel meat to aluminum cladding, several bonding methods such as roll bonding, friction stir bonding and hot isostatic pressing, have been explored. Hot isostatic pressing is a promising process for low cost, batch fabrication of monolithic RERTR fuel plates. The progress on the development of this process at the Idaho National Laboratory will be presented. Due to the relativelymore » high processing temperature used, the reaction between fuel meat and aluminum cladding to form brittle intermetallic phases may be a concern. The effect of processing temperature and time on the fuel/cladding reaction will be addressed. The influence of chemical composition on the reaction will also be discussed. (author)« less

Effect of heat treatment on corrosion behavior of duplex stainless steel in orthodontic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sabea Hammood, Ali; Faraj Noor, Ahmed; Talib Alkhafagy, Mohammed

2017-12-01

Heat treatment is necessary for duplex stainless steel (DSS) to remove or dissolve intermetallic phases, to remove segregation and to relieve any residual thermal stress in DSS, which may be formed during production processes. In the present study, the corrosion resistance of a DSS in artificial saliva was studied by potentiodynamic measurements. The microstructure was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM),x-ray diffraction (XRD) and Vickers hardness (HV). The properties were tested in as-received and in thermally treated conditions (800-900 °C, 2-8 min). The research aims to evaluate the capability of DSS for orthodontic applications, in order to substitute the austenitic grades. The results indicate that the corrosion resistance is mainly affected by the ferrite/austenite ratio. The best result was obtained with a treatment at 900 °C for 2 min.

A high-throughput exploration of magnetic materials by using structure predicting methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arapan, S.; Nieves, P.; Cuesta-López, S.

2018-02-01

We study the capability of a structure predicting method based on genetic/evolutionary algorithm for a high-throughput exploration of magnetic materials. We use the USPEX and VASP codes to predict stable and generate low-energy meta-stable structures for a set of representative magnetic structures comprising intermetallic alloys, oxides, interstitial compounds, and systems containing rare-earths elements, and for both types of ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic ordering. We have modified the interface between USPEX and VASP codes to improve the performance of structural optimization as well as to perform calculations in a high-throughput manner. We show that exploring the structure phase space with a structure predicting technique reveals large sets of low-energy metastable structures, which not only improve currently exiting databases, but also may provide understanding and solutions to stabilize and synthesize magnetic materials suitable for permanent magnet applications.

Nucleation study for an undercooled melt of intermetallic NiZr

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kobold, R.; Kolbe, M.; Hornfeck, W.; Herlach, D. M.

2018-03-01

Electrostatic levitation is applied in order to undercool liquid glass forming NiZr significantly below its melting temperature. For NiZr large undercoolings are found to be highly reproducible with this experimental method. One single NiZr sample of high purity is undercooled 200 consecutive times which leads to a distribution function of undercooling temperatures. Within a statistical approach of classical nucleation theory, the undercooling distribution is analyzed yielding parameters, e.g., a pre-exponential factor of KV ≈ 1035 m-3 s-1, which indicates homogeneous nucleation. This result is consistent with the crystallization behavior of NiZr at high undercooling and with the corresponding microstructural analysis. Since NiZr is a representative of the very common CrB structure type, with 132 isostructural phases existing, understanding its nucleation behavior adds important knowledge to the nucleation of binary alloys in general.

Surface improvement and biocompatibility of TiAl 24Nb 10 intermetallic alloy using rf plasma nitriding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abd El-Rahman, A. M.; Maitz, M. F.; Kassem, M. A.; El-Hossary, F. M.; Prokert, F.; Reuther, H.; Pham, M. T.; Richter, E.

2007-09-01

The present work describes the surface improvement and biocompatibility of TiAl 24Nb 10 intermetallic alloy using rf plasma nitriding. The nitriding process was carried out at different plasma power from 400 W to 650 W where the other plasma conditions were fixed. Grazing incidence X-ray diffractometry (GIXRD), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), tribometer and a nanohardness tester were employed to characterize the nitrided layer. Further potentiodynamic polarization method was used to describe the corrosion behavior of the un-nitrided and nitrided alloy. It has been found that the Vickers hardness (HV) and corrosion resistance values of the nitrided layers increase with increasing plasma power while the wear rates of the nitrided layers reduce by two orders of magnitude as compared to those of the un-nitrided layer. This improvement in surface properties of the intermetallic alloy is due to formation of a thin modified layer which is composed of titanium nitride in the alloy surface. Moreover, all modified layers were tested for their sustainability as a biocompatible material. Concerning the application area of biocompatibility, the present treated alloy show good surface properties especially for the nitrided alloy at low plasma power of 400 W.

Deformation twinning: Influence of strain rate

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gray, G.T. III

Twins in most crystal structures, including advanced materials such as intermetallics, form more readily as the temperature of deformation is decreased or the rate of deformation is increased. Both parameters lead to the suppression of thermally-activated dislocation processes which can result in stresses high enough to nucleate and grow deformation twins. Under high-strain rate or shock-loading/impact conditions deformation twinning is observed to be promoted even in high stacking fault energy FCC metals and alloys, composites, and ordered intermetallics which normally do not readily deform via twinning. Under such conditions and in particular under the extreme loading rates typical of shockmore » wave deformation the competition between slip and deformation twinning can be examined in detail. In this paper, examples of deformation twinning in the intermetallics TiAl, Ti-48Al-lV and Ni{sub 3}A as well in the cermet Al-B{sub 4}C as a function of strain rate will be presented. Discussion includes: (1) the microstructural and experimental variables influencing twin formation in these systems and twinning topics related to high-strain-rate loading, (2) the high velocity of twin formation, and (3) the influence of deformation twinning on the constitutive response of advanced materials.« less

Modeling of laser welding of steel and titanium plates with a composite insert

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Isaev, V. I.; Cherepanov, A. N.; Shapeev, V. P.

2017-10-01

A 3D model of laser welding proposed before by the authors was extended to the case of welding of metallic plates made of dissimilar materials with a composite multilayer intermediate insert. The model simulates heat transfer in the welded plates and takes into account phase transitions. It was proposed to select the composition of several metals and dimensions of the insert to avoid the formation of brittle intermetallic phases in the weld joint negatively affecting its strength properties. The model accounts for key physical phenomena occurring during the complex process of laser welding. It is capable to calculate temperature regimes at each point of the plates. The model can be used to select the welding parameters reducing the risk of formation of intermetallic plates. It can forecast the dimensions and crystalline structure of the solidified melt. Based on the proposed model a numerical algorithm was constructed. Simulations were carried out for the welding of titanium and steel plates with a composite insert comprising four different metals: copper and niobium (intermediate plates) with steel and titanium (outer plates). The insert is produced by explosion welding. Temperature fields and the processes of melting, evaporation, and solidification were studied.

Wear behavioral study of as cast and 7 hr homogenized Al25Mg2Si2Cu4Ni alloy at constant load

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harlapur, M. D.; Sondur, D. G.; Akkimardi, V. G.; Mallapur, D. G.

2018-04-01

In the current study, the wear behavior of as cast and 7 hr homogenized Al25Mg2Si2Cu4Ni alloy has been investigated. Microstructure, SEM and EDS results confirm the presence of different intermetallic and their effects on wear properties of Al25Mg2Si2Cu4Ni alloy in as cast as well as aged condition. Alloying main elements like Si, Cu, Mg and Ni partly dissolve in the primary α-Al matrix and to some amount present in the form of intermetallic phases. SEM structure of as cast alloy shows blocks of Mg2Si which is at random distributed in the aluminium matrix. Precipitates of Al2Cu in the form of Chinese script are also observed. Also `Q' phase (Al-Si-Cu-Mg) be distributed uniformly into the aluminium matrix. Few coarsened platelets of Ni are seen. In case of 7 hr homogenized samples blocks of Mg2Si get rounded at the corners, Platelets of Ni get fragmented and distributed uniformly in the aluminium matrix. Results show improved volumetric wear resistance and reduced coefficient of friction after homogenizing heat treatment.

Laser Indirect Shock Welding of Fine Wire to Metal Sheet.

PubMed

Wang, Xiao; Huang, Tao; Luo, Yapeng; Liu, Huixia

2017-09-12

The purpose of this paper is to present an advanced method for welding fine wire to metal sheet, namely laser indirect shock welding (LISW). This process uses silica gel as driver sheet to accelerate the metal sheet toward the wire to obtain metallurgical bonding. A series of experiments were implemented to validate the welding ability of Al sheet/Cu wire and Al sheet/Ag wire. It was found that the use of a driver sheet can maintain high surface quality of the metal sheet. With the increase of laser pulse energy, the bonding area of the sheet/wire increased and the welding interfaces were nearly flat. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) results show that the intermetallic phases were absent and a short element diffusion layer which would limit the formation of the intermetallic phases emerging at the welding interface. A tensile shear test was used to measure the mechanical strength of the welding joints. The influence of laser pulse energy on the tensile failure modes was investigated, and two failure modes, including interfacial failure and failure through the wire, were observed. The nanoindentation test results indicate that as the distance to the welding interface decreased, the microhardness increased due to the plastic deformation becoming more violent.

Characterization of Mg/Al butt joints welded by gas tungsten arc filling with Zn–29.5Al–0.5Ti filler metal

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Fei; Wang, Hongyang; Liu, Liming, E-mail: liulm@dlut.edu.cn

2014-04-01

The multivariate alloying design of a welding joint is used in the Mg to Al welding process. A Zn–29.5Al–0.5Ti alloy is added as filler metal in gas tungsten arc welding of Mg and Al alloy joint based on the analysis of Al and Mg alloy characteristics. The tensile strength, microstructure, and phase constitution of the weld seam are analyzed. The formation of brittle and hard Mg–Al intermetallic compounds is avoided because of the effects of Zn, Al, and Ti. The average tensile strength of the joint is 148 MPa. Al{sub 3}Ti is first precipitated and functions as the nucleus ofmore » heterogeneous nucleation during solidification. Moreover, the precipitated Al–MgZn{sub 2} hypoeutectic phase exhibited a feather-like structure, which enhances the property of the Mg–Al dissimilar joint. - Highlights: • Mg alloy AZ31B and Al alloy 6061 are butt welded by fusion welding. • The effect of Ti in filler metal is investigated. • The formation of Mg–Al intermetallic compounds is avoided.« less

Intermetallic compounds in heterogeneous catalysis—a quickly developing field

PubMed Central

Armbrüster, Marc; Schlögl, Robert; Grin, Yuri

2014-01-01

The application of intermetallic compounds for understanding in heterogeneous catalysis developed in an excellent way during the last decade. This review provides an overview of concepts and developments revealing the potential of intermetallic compounds in fundamental as well as applied catalysis research. Intermetallic compounds may be considered as platform materials to address current and future catalytic challenges, e.g. in respect to the energy transition. PMID:27877674

Brushing up on the history of intermetallics in dentistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waterstrat, Richard M.

1990-03-01

Employing a silver-tin-mercury intermetallic to repair cavities may seem a little unusual, but intermetallics are quite common in dentistry, ranging from gold crowns to braces. Although the human mouth can be unfriendly territory for a brittle intermetallic alloy, dental amalgam has been around since 659 A.D., and its technology has been developed to the point where a filling can be expected to last 30 years or more.

Investigation of Room temperature Ferromagnetism in Mn doped Ge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colakerol Arslan, Leyla; Toydemir, Burcu; Onel, Aykut Can; Ertas, Merve; Doganay, Hatice; Gebze Inst of Tech Collaboration; Research Center Julich Collaboration

2014-03-01

We present a systematic investigation of structural, magnetic and electronic properties of MnxGe1 -x single crystals. MnxGe1-x films were grown by sequential deposition of Ge and Mn by molecular-beam epitaxy at low substrate temperatures in order to avoid precipitation of ferromagnetic Ge-Mn intermetallic compounds. Reflected high energy electron diffraction and x-ray diffraction observations revealed that films are epitaxially grown on Si (001) substrates from the initial stage without any other phase formation. Magnetic measurements carried out using a physical property measurement system showed that all samples exhibited ferromagnetism at room temperature. Electron spin resonance indicates the presence of magnetically ordered localized spins of divalent Mn ions. X-ray absorption measurements at the Mn L-edge confirm significant substitutional doping of Mn into Ge-sites. The ferromagnetism was mainly induced by Mn substitution for Ge site, and indirect exchange interaction of these magnetic ions with the intrinsic charge carriers is the origin of ferromagnetism. The magnetic interactions were better understood by codoping with nonmagnetic impurities. This work was supported by Marie-Curie Reintegration Grant (PIRG08-GA-2010-276973).

Electronic structure, elasticity, bonding features and mechanical behaviour of zinc intermetallics: A DFT study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fatima, Bushra, E-mail: bushrafatima25@gmail.com; Acharya, Nikita; Sanyal, Sankar P.

2016-05-06

The structural stability, electronic structure, elastic and mechanical properties of TiZn and ZrZn intermetallics have been studied using ab-initio full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method within generalized gradient approximation for exchange and correlation potentials. The various structural parameters, such as lattice constant (a{sub 0}), bulk modulus (B), and its pressure derivative (B’) are analysed and compared. The investigation of elastic constants affirm that both TiZn and ZrZn are elastically stable in CsCl (B{sub 2} phase) structure. The electronic structures have been analysed quantitatively from the band structure which reveals the metallic nature of these compounds. To better illustratemore » the nature of bonding and charge transfer, we have also studied the Fermi surfaces. The three well known criterion of ductility namely Pugh’s rule, Cauchy’s pressure and Frantsevich rule elucidate the ductile nature of these compounds.« less

MCrAlY bond coat with enhanced Yttrium layer

DOEpatents

Jablonski, Paul D; Hawk, Jeffrey A

2015-04-21

One or more embodiments relates to an MCrAlY bond coat comprising an MCrAlY layer in contact with a Y--Al.sub.2O.sub.3 layer. The MCrAlY layer is comprised of a .gamma.-M solid solution, a .beta.-MAl intermetallic phase, and Y-type intermetallics. The Y--Al.sub.2O.sub.3 layer is comprised of Yttrium atoms coordinated with oxygen atoms comprising the Al.sub.2O.sub.3 lattice. Both the MCrAlY layer and the Y--Al.sub.2O.sub.3 layer have a substantial absence of Y--Al oxides, providing advantage in the maintainability of the Yttrium reservoir within the MCrAlY bulk. The MCrAlY bond coat may be fabricated through application of a Y.sub.2O.sub.3 paste to an MCrAlY material, followed by heating in a non-oxidizing environment.

Interaction of intermetallic compound formation in Cu/SnAgCu/NiAu sandwich solder joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Yanghua; Lu, Chuanyan; Chang, Junling; Xie, Xiaoming

2006-05-01

The interaction between Cu/solder interface and solder/Ni interface at a Cu/SnAgCu/NiAu sandwich solder joint with various surface finishes and solder heights was investigated. The interfacial microstructure and composition of intermetallic compounds (IMCs) were characterized by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The phase structure of IMC was identified by x-ray diffraction (XRD). It is found that ternary (Cu,Ni)6Sn5 IMCs form at both interfaces. The composition, thickness, and morphology of the ternary IMCs depend not only on the interface itself, but also on the opposite interface. That is to say, strong coupling effects exist between the two interfaces. Lattice parameters of (Cu,Ni)6Sn5 shrink with increasing Ni content, in agreement with Vegard’s law. The mechanism of ternary IMC formation and interface coupling effects are discussed in this paper.

Comparison of the Thermal Expansion Behavior of Several Intermetallic Silicide Alloys Between 293 and 1523 K

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Raj, Sai V.

2014-01-01

Thermal expansion measurements were conducted on hot-pressed CrSi(sub 2), TiSi(sub 2), W Si(sub 2) and a two-phase Cr-Mo-Si intermetallic alloy between 293 and 1523 K during three heat-cool cycles. The corrected thermal expansion, (L/L(sub 0)(sub thermal), varied with the absolute temperature, T, as (deltaL/L(sub 0)(sub thermal) = A(T-293)(sup 3) + B(T-293)(sup 2) + C(T-293) + D, where A, B, C and D are regression constants. Excellent reproducibility was observed for most of the materials after the first heat-up cycle. In some cases, the data from the first heatup cycle deviated from those determined in the subsequent cycles. This deviation was attributed to the presence of residual stresses developed during processing, which are relieved after the first heat-up cycle.

Solidification and Microstructure of Ni-Containing Al-Si-Cu Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, Li; Ren, Luyang; Geng, Xinyu; Hu, Henry; Nie, Xueyuan; Tjong, Jimi

2018-01-01

2 wt. % nickel (Ni) addition was introduced into a conventional cast aluminum alloy A380. The influence of transition alloying element nickel on the solidification behavior of cast aluminum alloy A380 was investigated via thermal analyses based on temperature measurements recorded on cooling curves. The corresponding first and second derivatives of the cooling curves were derived to reveal the details of phase changes during solidification. The nucleation of the primary α-Al phase and eutectic phases were analyzed. The microstructure analyses by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) indicate that different types and amount of eutectic phases are present in the tested two alloys. The introduction of Ni forms the complex Ni-containing intermetallic phases with Cu and Al.

The Influence of Milling and Spark Plasma Sintering on the Microstructure and Properties of the Al7075 Alloy

PubMed Central

Málek, Přemysl; Minárik, Peter; Novák, Pavel; Průša, Filip

2018-01-01

The compact samples of an Al7075 alloy were prepared by a combination of gas atomization, high energy milling, and spark plasma sintering. The predominantly cellular morphology observed in gas atomized powder particles was completely changed by mechanical milling. The continuous-like intermetallic phases present along intercellular boundaries were destroyed; nevertheless, a small amount of Mg(Zn,Cu,Al)2 phase was observed also in the milled powder. Milling resulted in a severe plastic deformation of the material and led to a reduction of grain size from several µm into the nanocrystalline region. The combination of these microstructural characteristics resulted in abnormally high microhardness values exceeding 300 HV. Consolidation through spark plasma sintering (SPS) resulted in bulk samples with negligible porosity. The heat exposition during SPS led to precipitation of intermetallic phases from the non-equilibrium microstructure of both gas atomized and milled powders. SPS of the milled powder resulted in a recrystallization of the severely deformed structure. An ultra-fine grained structure (grain size close to 500 nm) with grains divided primarily by high-angle boundaries was formed. A simultaneous release of stored deformation energy and an increase in the grain size caused a drop of microhardness to values close to 150 HV. This value was retained even after annealing at 425 °C. PMID:29614046

Microstructural Characterization of Friction Stir Welded Aluminum-Steel Joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patterson, Erin E.; Hovanski, Yuri; Field, David P.

2016-06-01

This work focuses on the microstructural characterization of aluminum to steel friction stir welded joints. Lap weld configuration coupled with scribe technology used for the weld tool have produced joints of adequate quality, despite the significant differences in hardness and melting temperatures of the alloys. Common to friction stir processes, especially those of dissimilar alloys, are microstructural gradients including grain size, crystallographic texture, and precipitation of intermetallic compounds. Because of the significant influence that intermetallic compound formation has on mechanical and ballistic behavior, the characterization of the specific intermetallic phases and the degree to which they are formed in the weld microstructure is critical to predicting weld performance. This study used electron backscatter diffraction, energy dispersive spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and Vickers micro-hardness indentation to explore and characterize the microstructures of lap friction stir welds between an applique 6061-T6 aluminum armor plate alloy and a RHA homogeneous armor plate steel alloy. Macroscopic defects such as micro-cracks were observed in the cross-sectional samples, and binary intermetallic compound layers were found to exist at the aluminum-steel interfaces of the steel particles stirred into the aluminum weld matrix and across the interfaces of the weld joints. Energy dispersive spectroscopy chemical analysis identified the intermetallic layer as monoclinic Al3Fe. Dramatic decreases in grain size in the thermo-mechanically affected zones and weld zones that evidenced grain refinement through plastic deformation and recrystallization. Crystallographic grain orientation and texture were examined using electron backscatter diffraction. Striated regions in the orientations of the aluminum alloy were determined to be the result of the severe deformation induced by the complex weld tool geometry. Many of the textures observed in the weld zone and thermo-mechanically affected zones exhibited shear texture components; however, there were many textures that deviated from ideal simple shear. Factors affecting the microstructure which are characteristic of the friction stir welding process, such as post-recrystallization deformation and complex deformation induced by tool geometry were discussed as causes for deviation from simple shear textures.

The Effects of Dy Addition on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of the As-Cast Mg-5Al-3Ca-2Nd Alloys.

PubMed

Son, Hyeon-Taek; Kim, Yong-Ho; Yoo, Hyo-Sang

2018-03-01

The microstructure of the as-cast Mg-5Al-3Ca-2Nd-xDy alloys consists of α-Mg matrix, (Mg, Al)2Ca eutectic phase, Al-Nd and Al-Dy intermetallic compounds. α-Mg matrix morphology was changed from dendritic to equiaxed with the increase Dy addition. And grain size was remarkably refined. As Dy content was increased, yield strength was improved due to the refined grains and the homogeneous distribution of Al-Dy phase.

Mechanosynthesis of Precursors for TiC-Cu Cermets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eremina, M. A.; Lomaeva, S. F.; Burnyshev, I. N.; Kalyuzhnyi, D. G.

2018-04-01

The structural and phase state of the samples obtained by co-grinding of Ti and Cu powders under different conditions (with graphite, in petroleum ether, and in xylene) is investigated. It is demonstrated that after thermal treatment of powders obtained by milling of titanium, copper, and graphite in petroleum ether, both cubic titanium carbide and hexagonal titanium carbohydride are formed, whereas by milling without graphite, only hexagonal carbohydride possessing high thermal stability is formed. CuTi and CuTi2 intermetallic phases are formed under all examined conditions of mechanosynthesis.

A New Thermodynamic Parameter to Predict Formation of Solid Solution or Intermetallic Phases in High Entropy Alloys (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-02

George , Relative effects of enthalpy and entropy on the phase stability of equiatomic high-entropy alloys, Acta Mater. 61 (2013) 2628e2638. [4] B... Cantor , I.T.H. Chang, P. Knight, A.J.B. Vincent, Microstructural development in equiatomic multicomponent alloys, Mater. Sci. Eng. A 375e377 (2004...an Al0.5CoCrCuFeNi high entropy alloy, In- termetallics 31 (2012) 165e172. [24] Z. Wu, H. Bei, F. Otto, G.M. Pharr, E.P. George , Recovery

Micromechanisms of Monotonic and Cyclic Subcritical Crack Growth in Advanced High Melting Point Low-Ductility Intermetallics

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-05-01

Advanced Structural Ceramics, MRS Symp. Proc., P. F. Becher et al . (eds.), MRS, Pittsburgh, PA (1986). 11) M. J. Reece, F. Guiu and M. F. R. Sammur...composites under study, listed in Table 2.1, were fabricated by phase blending -80 mesh y-TiAI (Ti-55 at.% Al , with small additions of Nb, Ta, C and 0...on phase transformations in the alloy system. In the case of the binary Nb- Al system, the peritectic reaction at 2060’C (Fig. 3.1), involving the

Recrystallization and grain growth in NiAl

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haff, G. R.; Schulson, E. M.

1982-01-01

Aluminide intermetallics, because of their strength, microstructural stability, and oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures, represent potential structural materials for use in advanced energy conversion systems. This inherent potential of the intermetallics can currently not be realized in connection with the general brittleness of the materials under ambient conditions. It is pointed out, however, that brittleness is not an inherent characteristic. Single crystals are ductile and polycrystals may be, too, if their grains are fine enough. The present investigation is concerned with an approach for reducing material brittleness, taking into account thermal-mechanically induced grain refinement in NiAl, a B2 aluminide which melts at 1638 C and which retains complete order to its melting point. Attention is given to the kinetics of recrystallization and grain growth of warm-worked, nickel-rich material.

Two-phase chromium-niobium alloys exhibiting improved mechanical properties at high temperatures

DOEpatents

Liu, Chain T.; Takeyama, Masao

1994-01-01

The specification discloses chromium-niobium alloys which exhibit improved mechanical properties at high temperatures in the range of 1250.degree. C. and improved room temperature ductility. The alloys contain a Cr.sub.2 Nb-rich intermetallic phase and a Cr-rich phase with an overall niobium concentration in the range of from about 5 to about 18 at. %. The high temperature strength is substantially greater than that of state of the art nickel-based superalloys for enhanced high temperature service. Further improvements in the properties of the compositions are obtained by alloying with rhenium and aluminum; and additional rare-earth and other elements.

Two-phase chromium-niobium alloys exhibiting improved mechanical properties at high temperatures

DOEpatents

Liu, C.T.; Takeyama, Masao.

1994-02-01

The specification discloses chromium-niobium alloys which exhibit improved mechanical properties at high temperatures in the range of 1250 C and improved room temperature ductility. The alloys contain a Cr[sub 2]Nb-rich intermetallic phase and a Cr-rich phase with an overall niobium concentration in the range of from about 5 to about 18 at. %. The high temperature strength is substantially greater than that of state of the art nickel-based superalloys for enhanced high temperature service. Further improvements in the properties of the compositions are obtained by alloying with rhenium and aluminum; and additional rare-earth and other elements. 14 figures.

Dispersion toughened ceramic composites and method for making same

DOEpatents

Stinton, David P.; Lackey, Walter J.; Lauf, Robert J.

1986-01-01

Ceramic composites exhibiting increased fracture toughness are produced by the simultaneous codeposition of silicon carbide and titanium disilicide by chemical vapor deposition. A mixture of hydrogen, methyltrichlorosilane and titanium tetrachloride is introduced into a furnace containing a substrate such as graphite or silicon carbide. The thermal decomposition of the methyltrichlorosilane provides a silicon carbide matrix phase and the decomposition of the titanium tetrachloride provides a uniformly dispersed second phase of the intermetallic titanium disilicide within the matrix phase. The fracture toughness of the ceramic composite is in the range of about 6.5 to 7.0 MPa.sqroot.m which represents a significant increase over that of silicon carbide.

Dispersion toughened ceramic composites and method for making same

DOEpatents

Stinton, D.P.; Lackey, W.J.; Lauf, R.J.

1984-09-28

Ceramic composites exhibiting increased fracture toughness are produced by the simultaneous codeposition of silicon carbide and titanium disilicide by chemical vapor deposition. A mixture of hydrogen, methyltrichlorosilane and titanium tetrachloride is introduced into a furnace containing a substrate such as graphite or silicon carbide. The thermal decomposition of the methyltrichlorosilane provides a silicon carbide matrix phase and the decomposition of the titanium tetrachloride provides a uniformly dispersed second phase of the intermetallic titanium disilicide within the matrix phase. The fracture toughness of the ceramic composite is in the range of about 6.5 to 7.0 MPa..sqrt..m which represents a significant increase over that of silicon carbide.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Plucknett, K.P.; Becher, P.F.; Subramanian, R.

A simple melt-infiltration processing route has been developed for the fabrication of TiC/Ni{sub 3}Al ceramic/intermetallic composites, which involves a combination of infiltration and subsequent liquid phase sintering. For Ni{sub 3}Al contents from 8 to 25 vol. {percent}, densities in excess of 98{percent} of theoretical are readily obtained when processing at 1450{degree}C. TiC and Ni{sub 3}Al are the only phases detected in the densified materials. Ni{sub 3}Al ductility is retained after processing, leading to the possibility of ductile phase toughened TiC composites for elevated temperature applications (up to {approximately}1100{degree}C). {copyright} {ital 1997 Materials Research Society.}

Phase stability, porosity distribution and microstructural evolution of amorphous Al{sub 50}Ti{sub 50} powders consolidated by electrical resistance sintering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Urban, P., E-mail: purban@us.es; Montes, J. M.; Cintas, J.

2015-03-30

The effect of intensity and duration of the electrical resistance sintering process on the phase stability, porosity distribution and microstructural evolution of Al{sub 50}Ti{sub 50} amorphous powders is studied. The phase transformations during the consolidation process were determined by X-ray diffraction. The porosity distribution was observed by optical and scanning electron microscopy. The amorphous phase is partially transformed to the crystalline phase during the sintering process, and formation of AlTi and AlTi{sub 3} intermetallic compounds occurs for temperatures higher than 300 °C. Finally, it is observed that the compacts core have lower porosity and a higher tendency to the amorphous-crystallinemore » phase transformation than the periphery.« less

Formation of metastable phases during heat treatment of multilayers in the Al-Pt system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lábár, János L.; Kovács, András; Barna, Péter B.; Gas, Patrick

2001-12-01

This communication reports that several metastable phases form subsequently during heat treatment (up to 500 °C) of Al-rich Al-Pt multilayers. Besides the known a(amorphous)-Al2Pt, formation of two metastable phases with a composition close to Al5Pt was also observed in a transmission electron microscope. One of them corresponds to a phase given by space group P4 in Pearson's collection of intermetallic compounds. The other, a hexagonal phase (a=12.4 Å and c=26.2 Å) is the one that was observed in rapidly solidified Al-Pt alloys [L. Ma, R. Wang, and K. H. Kuo, J. Less-Common Met. 163, 37 (1990)]. Formation of these phases under different conditions is reported here.

Defect structures in ordered intermetallics; grain boundaries and surfaces in FeAl, NiAl, CoAl and TiAl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mutasa, Batsirai Manyara

Ordered intermetallics based on transition metal aluminides have been proposed as structural materials for advanced aerospace applications. The development of these materials, which have the advantages of low density and high operating temperatures, have been focused on the aluminides of titanium, nickel and iron. Though these materials exhibit attractive properties at elevated temperatures, their utilization is limited due to their propensity for low temperature fracture and susceptibility to decreased ductility due to environmental effects. A major embrittlement mechanism at ambient temperatures in these aluminides has been by the loss of cohesive strength at the interfaces (intergranular failure). This study focuses on this mechanism of failure, by undertaking a systematic study of the energies and structures of specific grain boundaries in some of these compounds. The relaxed atomistic grain boundary structures in B2 aluminides, FeAl, NiAl and CoAl and L10 gamma-TiAl were investigated using molecular statics and embedded atom potentials in order to explore general trends for a series of B2 compounds as well as TiAl. The potentials used correctly predict the proper mechanism of compositional disorder of these compounds. Using these potentials, point defects, free surface energies and various grain boundary structures of similar energies in three B2 compounds, FeAl, NiAl and CoAl were studied. These B2 alloys exhibited increasing anti-phase boundary energies respectively. The misorientations chosen for detailed study correspond to the Sigma5(310) and Sigma5(210) boundaries. These boundaries were investigated with consideration given to possible variations in the local chemical composition. The effects of both boundary stoichiometry and bulk stoichiometry on grain boundary energetics were also considered. Defect energies were calculated for boundaries contained in both stoichiometric and off-stoichiometric bulk. The surface energies for these aluminides were also calculated so that trends concerning the cohesive energy of the boundaries could be studied. The implications of stoichiometry, the multiplicity of the boundary structures and possible transformations between them for grain boundary brittleness are also discussed.

Intermetallic nanoparticles

DOEpatents

Singh, Dileep; Yusufoglu, Yusuf; Timofeeva, Elena; Routbort, Jules

2015-07-14

A process for preparing intermetallic nanoparticles of two or more metals is provided. In particular, the process includes the steps: a) dispersing nanoparticles of a first metal in a solvent to prepare a first metal solution, b) forming a reaction mixture with the first metal solution and a reducing agent, c) heating the reaction mixture to a reaction temperature; and d) adding a second metal solution containing a salt of a second metal to the reaction mixture. During this process, intermetallic nanoparticles, which contain a compound with the first and second metals are formed. The intermetallic nanoparticles with uniform size and a narrow size distribution is also provided. An electrochemical device such as a battery with the intermetallic nanoparticles is also provided.

Intermetallic nanoparticles

DOEpatents

Singh, Dileep; Yusufoglu, Yusuf; Timofeeva, Elena; Routbort, Jules L.

2015-11-20

A process for preparing intermetallic nanoparticles of two or more metals is provided. In particular, the process includes the steps: a) dispersing nanoparticles of a first metal in a solvent to prepare a first metal solution, b) forming a reaction mixture with the first metal solution and a reducing agent, c) heating the reaction mixture to a reaction temperature; and d) adding a second metal solution containing a salt of a second metal to the reaction mixture. During this process, intermetallic nanoparticles, which contain a compound with the first and second metals are formed. The intermetallic nanoparticles with uniform size and a narrow size distribution is also provided. An electrochemical device such as a battery with the intermetallic nanoparticles is also provided.

Intermetallic nanoparticles

DOEpatents

Singh, Dileep; Yusufoglu, Yusuf; Timofeeva, Elena; Routbort, Jules L.

2017-01-03

A process for preparing intermetallic nanoparticles of two or more metals is provided. In particular, the process includes the steps: a) dispersing nanoparticles of a first metal in a solvent to prepare a first metal solution, b) forming a reaction mixture with the first metal solution and a reducing agent, c) heating the reaction mixture to a reaction temperature; and d) adding a second metal solution containing a salt of a second metal to the reaction mixture. During this process, intermetallic nanoparticles, which contain a compound with the first and second metals are formed. The intermetallic nanoparticles with uniform size and a narrow size distribution is also provided. An electrochemical device such as a battery with the intermetallic nanoparticles is also provided.

Microstructure and tribological properties of TiCu2Al intermetallic compound coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Chun; Zhou, Jiansong; Zhao, Jierong; Wang, Linqian; Yu, Youjun; Chen, Jianmin; Zhou, Huidi

2011-04-01

TiCu2Al ternary intermetallic compound coating has been in situ synthesized successfully on pure Ti substrate by laser cladding. Tribological properties of the prepared TiCu2Al intermetallic compound coating were systematically evaluated. It was found that the friction coefficient and wear rate was closely related to the normal load and sliding speed, i.e., the friction coefficient of the prepared TiCu2Al intermetallic compound coating decreased with increasing normal load and sliding speed. The wear rate of the TiCu2Al intermetallic compound coating decreased rapidly with increasing sliding speed, while the wear rate first increased and then decreased at normal load from 5 to 15 N.

Influence of heat-treated Al-Si coating on the weldability and microstructural inhomogeneity for hot stamped steel resistance nut projection welds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chun, Eun-Joon; Lim, Sung-Sang; Kim, Young-Tae; Nam, Ki-Sung; Kim, Young-Min; Park, Young-Whan; Murugan, Siva Prasad; Park, Yeong-Do

2018-03-01

Resistance nut projection weldability of Al-Si coated hot stamped steel (HSS) was investigated under the viewpoint of weldable current range and joint strength (pull-out load). The microstructural inhomogeneities in the welds were also studied in order to elucidate the factors affecting the joint strength of the welds. The weldability of the given Al-Si coated HSS was compared with the weldability of an identical HSS without the Al-Si coating (Al-Si coating was polished out) and Zn coated dual phase steel. The weldable current range of Al-Si coated HSS was found to be narrower than that of the other materials. Furthermore, the average pull-out load within the weldable current range of the Al-Si coated HSS was the lowest among the three materials. The reason for poor weld mechanical property of the Al-Si coated hot-stamped steel was attributed to the microstructural inhomogeneities such as unmixed Al-Si coating layer at the edge of the nugget and the second phase Fe3(Al, Si) intermetallic compound. The formation of Fe3(Al, Si) phase was attributed to the solidification segregation of Al and Si during the weld solidification and was confirmed with the numerical analysis of solidification segregation.

On the Functionality of Complex Intermetallics: Frustration, Chemical Pressure Relief, and Potential Rattling Atoms in Y11Ni60C6.

PubMed

Guo, Yiming; Fredrickson, Daniel C

2016-10-17

Intermetallic carbides provide excellent model systems for exploring how frustration can shape the structures and properties of inorganic materials. Combinations of several metals with carbon can be designed in which the formation of tetrahedrally close-packed (TCP) intermetallics conflicts with the C atoms' requirement of trigonal prismatic or octahedral coordination environments, as offered by the simple close-packings (SCP) of equally sized spheres. In this Article, we explore the driving forces that lead to the coexistence of these incompatible arrangements in the Yb 11 Ni 60 C 6 -type compound Y 11 Ni 60 C 6 (cI154), as well as potential consequences of this intergrowth for the phase's physical properties. Our focus begins on the structure's SCP regions, which appear as C-stuffed versions of a AuCu 3 -type YNi 3 phase that is not observed on its own in the Y-Ni system. DFT-Chemical Pressure (DFT-CP) calculations on this hypothetical YNi 3 phase reveal large negative pressures within the Ni sublattice, as it is stretched to accommodate the size requirements of the Y atoms. In the Y 11 Ni 60 C 6 structure, two structural mechanisms for addressing these CP issues appear: the incorporation of interstitial C atoms, and the presence of interfaces with CaCu 5 -type domains. The relative roles of these two mechanisms are investigated with the CP analysis on a hypothetical YNi 3 C x series of C-stuffed AuCu 3 -type phases, the Y-Ni sublattice of Y 11 Ni 60 C 6 , and finally the full Y 11 Ni 60 C 6 structure. Through these calculations, the C atoms appear to play the roles of relieving positive Y CPs and supporting relaxation at the AuCu 3 -type/CaCu 5 -type interfaces, where the cancellation occurs between opposite CPs experienced by the Y atoms in the two parent structures (following the epitaxial stabilization mechanism). The CP analysis of Y 11 Ni 60 C 6 also highlights a sublattice of Y and Ni atoms with large negative CPs (and thus the potential for soft vibrational modes), illustrating how frustrated structures could lead to the full realization of the phonon glass-electron crystal concept.

United States Air Force Research Initiation Program for 1987. Volume 3

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-04-01

Influence of Microstructural Variations Dr. Ravinder Diwan on the Thermomechanical Processing in Dynamic Material Modeling of Titanium Aluminides , 760,7MG...7MG-077 INFLUENCE OF MICROSTRUCTURAL VARIATIONS ON THE THERMOMECHANICAL PROCESSING IN DYNAMIC MATERIAL MODELING OF TITANIUM ALUMINIDES MARCH 15, 1989...provided on this project. Final Report Submitted: March 15, 1989. 75-1 ABSTRACT Titanium aluminides with strong thermodynamically stable intermetallic phases

Corrosion-resistant fuel cladding allow for liquid metal fast breeder reactors

DOEpatents

Brehm, Jr., William F.; Colburn, Richard P.

1982-01-01

An aluminide coating for a fuel cladding tube for LMFBRs (liquid metal fast breeder reactors) such as those using liquid sodium as a heat transfer agent. The coating comprises a mixture of nickel-aluminum intermetallic phases and presents good corrosion resistance to liquid sodium at temperatures up to 700.degree. C. while additionally presenting a barrier to outward diffusion of .sup.54 Mn.

Microstructural Evolution of the Interface Between Pure Titanium and Low Melting Point Zr-Ti-Ni(Cu) Filler Metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Dongmyoung; Sun, Juhyun; Kang, Donghan; Shin, Seungyoung; Hong, Juhwa

2014-12-01

Low melting point Zr-based filler metals with melting point depressants (MPDs) such as Cu and Ni elements are used for titanium brazing. However, the phase transition of the filler metals in the titanium joint needs to be explained, since the main element of Zr in the filler metals differs from that of the parent titanium alloys. In addition, since the MPDs easily form brittle intermetallics, that deteriorate joint properties, the phase evolution they cause needs to be studied. Zr-based filler metals having Cu content from 0 to 12 at. pct and Ni content from 12 to 24 at. pct with a melting temperature range of 1062 K to 1082 K (789 °C to 809 °C) were wetting-tested on a titanium plate to investigate the phase transformation and evolution at the interface between the titanium plate and the filler metals. In the interface, the alloys system with Zr, Zr2Ni, and (Ti,Zr)2Ni phases was easily changed to a Ti-based alloy system with Ti, Ti2Ni, and (Ti,Zr)2Ni phases, by the local melting of parent titanium. The dissolution depths of the parent metal were increased with increasing Ni content in the filler metals because Ni has a faster diffusion rate than Cu. Instead, slow diffusion of Cu into titanium substrate leads to the accumulation of Cu at the molten zone of the interface, which could form undesirable Ti x Cu y intermetallics. This study confirmed that Zr-based filler metals are compatible with the parent titanium metal with the minimum content of MPDs.

Metal- and intermetallic-matrix composites for aerospace propulsion and power systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doychak, J.

1992-01-01

The requirements for high specific strength refractory materials of prospective military, civil, and space propulsion systems are presently addressed in the context of emerging capabilities in metal- and intermetallic-matrix composites. The candidate systems encompass composite matrix compositions of superalloy, Nb-Zr refractory alloy, Cu-base, and Ti-base alloy types, as well as such intermetallics as TiAl, Ti3Al, NiAl, and MoSi2. The brittleness of intermetallic matrices remains a major consideration, as does their general difficulty of fabrication.

The effect of aging treatment on the fracture toughness and impact strength of injection molded Ni-625 superalloy parts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Özgün, Özgür, E-mail: oozgun@bingol.edu.tr; Yılmaz, Ramazan; Özkan Gülsoy, H.

In this study, the effect of aging heat treatment on fracture toughness and impact strength of Ni-625 superalloy fabricated by using powder injection molding (PIM) method was examined. After a feedstock was prepared by mixing the prealloyed Ni-625 superalloy powder, which was fabricated by gas atomisation, with a polymeric binder system and then it was granulated, it was shaped through the use of injection. The molded specimens were sintered at 1300 °C for 3 h after a two-stage debinding process. Once the sintered specimens were treated in the solution at 1150 °C for 2 h, they were quenched. Aging treatmentmore » was performed by keeping specimens at 745 °C for 22 h. Fracture toughness and impact tests were performed on sintered and aged specimens. Microstructure examinations were performed by using optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscope. The results revealed that aging heat treatment led to the formation of some carbides and intermetallic phases in the microstructure. While the hardness of the aged specimens increased due to these phases, their fracture toughness and impact strength values decreased. - Highlights: • Ni-625 superalloy components were produced by means of powder injection molding. • The produced components were subjected to aging treatment. • Aging process provided approximately 50% increase in the hardness of components. • Intermetallic precipitates, carbides and TCP phases occurred within the aged parts. • Fracture toughness and impact strength values decreased due to the hard phases.« less

Solder/Substrate Interfacial Reactions in the Sn-Cu-Ni Interconnection System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, H.; Vuorinen, V.; Kivilahti, J. K.

2007-02-01

In order to obtain a better understanding of the effects of interconnection microstructures on the reliability of soldered assemblies, one of the most important ternary systems used in electronics, the Sn-Cu-Ni system, has been assessed thermodynamically. Based on the data obtained, some recent experimental observations related to the formation of interfacial intermetallic compounds in solder interconnections have been studied analytically. First, the effect of Cu content on the formation of the interfacial intermetallic compounds between the SnAgCu solder alloys and Ni substrate was investigated. The critical Cu content for (Cu,Ni)6Sn5 formation was evaluated as a function of temperature. Second, we analyzed how the Ni dissolved in the Cu6Sn5 compound affects the driving forces for the diffusion of components and hence the growth kinetics of (Cu,Ni)6Sn5 and (Cu,Ni)3Sn reaction layers. With the thermodynamic description, other experimental observations related to the Sn-Cu-Ni system can be rationalized as well. The system can be used also as a subsystem for industrially important higher order solder systems.

Synthesis of alloys with controlled phase structure

DOEpatents

Guthrie, Stephen Everett; Thomas, George John; Bauer, Walter; Yang, Nancy Yuan Chi

1999-04-20

A method for preparing controlled phase alloys useful for engineering and hydrogen storage applications. This novel method avoids melting the constituents by employing vapor transport, in a hydrogen atmosphere, of an active metal constituent, having a high vapor pressure at temperatures .apprxeq.300 C. and its subsequent condensation on and reaction with the other constituent (substrate) of an alloy thereby forming a controlled phase alloy and preferably a single phase alloy. It is preferred that the substrate material be a metal powder such that diffusion of the active metal constituent, preferably magnesium, and reaction therewith can be completed within a reasonable time and at temperatures .apprxeq.300 C. thereby avoiding undesirable effects such as sintering, local compositional inhomogeneities, segregation, and formation of unwanted second phases such as intermetallic compounds.

Synthesis of alloys with controlled phase structure

DOEpatents

Guthrie, S.E.; Thomas, G.J.; Bauer, W.; Yang, N.Y.C.

1999-04-20

A method is described for preparing controlled phase alloys useful for engineering and hydrogen storage applications. This novel method avoids melting the constituents by employing vapor transport, in a hydrogen atmosphere, of an active metal constituent, having a high vapor pressure at temperatures {approx_equal}300 C and its subsequent condensation on and reaction with the other constituent (substrate) of an alloy thereby forming a controlled phase alloy and preferably a single phase alloy. It is preferred that the substrate material be a metal powder such that diffusion of the active metal constituent, preferably magnesium, and reaction therewith can be completed within a reasonable time and at temperatures {approx_equal}300 C thereby avoiding undesirable effects such as sintering, local compositional inhomogeneities, segregation, and formation of unwanted second phases such as intermetallic compounds. 4 figs.

Microstructure, microstructural stability and mechanical properties of sand-cast Mg–4Al–4RE alloy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rzychoń, Tomasz, E-mail: tomasz.rzychon@polsl.pl; Kiełbus, Andrzej; Lityńska-Dobrzyńska, Lidia

2013-09-15

This paper presents a methodology for assessing the phase composition and the results of structural stability tests of the sand-cast Mg–4Al–4RE alloy after annealing it at 175 and 250 °C for 3000 h. The microstructure was analyzed with optical, scanning electron, and transmission electron microscopy. The phase composition was determined with X-ray diffraction. The structure of the Mg–4Al–4RE (AE44) alloy is composed of large grains of α-Mg solid solution, needle-shaped precipitates of the Al{sub 11}RE{sub 3}phase, polyhedral precipitates of the Al{sub 2}RE phase and Al{sub 10}RE{sub 2}Mn{sub 7} phase. After annealing at 175 °C for 3000 h, no changes inmore » the alloy structure are observed, whereas after annealing at 250 °C the precipitates of the Al{sub 11}RE{sub 3} phase are found to be in the initial stages of spheroidization. The coarse-grained structure and unfavorable morphology of the intermetallic phases in the sand-cast AE44 alloy, which are caused by low solidification rates, result in low creep resistance up to 200 °C and low mechanical properties at ambient temperature and at 175 °C. - Highlights: • Complement the knowledge about the microstructure of Mg-Al-RE alloys. • Clarify the mechanism of formation of Mg17Al12 phase above 180 °C. • Applying a chemical dissolution of the α-Mg in order to phase identification. • Applying a statistical test to assess the spheroidization of precipitates. • Quantitative description of microstructure of Mg-Al-RE alloys.« less

Topologically Close-packed Phase Formation in High Entropy Alloys: A Review of Calphad and Experimental Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guruvidyathri, K.; Hari Kumar, K. C.; Yeh, J. W.; Murty, B. S.

2017-11-01

One of the major challenges in high entropy alloy (HEA) research is to obtain single-phase solid solutions by proper selection of components and processing techniques. Often one encounters situations where topologically close-packed (TCP) phases are present in the HEA microstructures. TCP phases are a class of intermetallic phases that are in general considered undesirable. The ability to predict these phases in HEAs using the Calphad (CALculation of PHAse Diagrams) method has been shown to accelerate the identification of promising compositions. In this review, an analysis of the reported Calphad studies and corresponding microstructural information on HEAs is done to evaluate the success of the Calphad method for TCP phases. A total of 52 alloys with 123 post-heat treatment microstructures reported so far have been compared. Challenges and issues in experiments and calculations are brought out with a possible way forward.

Complex magnetism of lanthanide intermetallics and the role of their valence electrons: Ab Initio theory and experiment

DOE PAGES

Petit, L.; Paudyal, D.; Mudryk, Y.; ...

2015-11-09

We explain a profound complexity of magnetic interactions of some technologically relevant gadolinium intermetallics using an ab initio electronic structure theory which includes disordered local moments and strong f-electron correlations. The theory correctly finds GdZn and GdCd to be simple ferromagnets and predicts a remarkably large increase of Curie temperature with a pressure of +1.5 K kbar –1 for GdCd confirmed by our experimental measurements of +1.6 K kbar –1. Moreover, we find the origin of a ferromagnetic-antiferromagnetic competition in GdMg manifested by noncollinear, canted magnetic order at low temperatures. As a result, replacing 35% of the Mg atoms withmore » Zn removes this transition, in excellent agreement with long-standing experimental data.« less

Effect of Mg2Sn Intermetallic on the Grain Refinement in As-cast AM Series Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

She, J.; Pan, F. S.; Hu, H. H.; Tang, A. T.; Yu, Z. W.; Song, K.

2015-08-01

In the present work, in order to investigate the grain refinement mechanism of AM containing Sn alloys, the as-cast AM60, AM90 alloys, and the alloys with addition of 1 wt.% Sn were fabricated by traditional casting, respectively. During the solidification of AM + Sn alloys, the morphology of divorced eutectic Mg17Al12 was refined by Mg2Sn intermetallic that served as the heterogeneous nucleation cores. The modified Mg17Al12 effectively restricted the grain growth and resulted in a grain refinement. As a result, the yield strength of as-cast AM alloys was significantly enhanced by addition of Sn, while the ductility also improved. Moreover, the edge-to-edge model was employed to predict the orientation relationship between Mg17Al12 and Mg2Sn.

Containerless automated processing of intermetallic compounds and composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, D. R.; Joslin, S. M.; Reviere, R. D.; Oliver, B. F.; Noebe, R. D.

1993-01-01

An automated containerless processing system has been developed to directionally solidify high temperature materials, intermetallic compounds, and intermetallic/metallic composites. The system incorporates a wide range of ultra-high purity chemical processing conditions. The utilization of image processing for automated control negates the need for temperature measurements for process control. The list of recent systems that have been processed includes Cr, Mo, Mn, Nb, Ni, Ti, V, and Zr containing aluminides. Possible uses of the system, process control approaches, and properties and structures of recently processed intermetallics are reviewed.

Intermetallics as innovative CRM-free materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Novák, Pavel; Jaworska, Lucyna; Cabibbo, Marcello

2018-03-01

Many of currently used technical materials cannot be imagined without the use of critical raw materials. They require chromium (e.g. in stainless and tool steels), tungsten and cobalt (tool materials, heat resistant alloys), niobium (steels and modern biomaterials). Therefore there is a need to find substitutes to help the European economy. A promising solution can be the application of intermetallics. These materials offer wide variety of interesting properties, such as high hardness and wear resistance or high chemical resistance. In this paper, the overview of possible substitute materials among intermetallics is presented. Intermetallics based on aluminides and silicides are shown as corrosion resistant materials, composites composed of ceramics in intermetallic matrix as possible tool materials. The manufacturing processes are being developed to minimize the disadvantages of these materials, mainly the room-temperature brittleness.

An Investigation of the Microstructure of an Intermetallic Layer in Welding Aluminum Alloys to Steel by MIG Process

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Quoc Manh; Huang, Shyh-Chour

2015-01-01

Butt joints of A5052 aluminum alloy and SS400 steel, with a new type of chamfered edge, are welded by means of metal inert gas welding and ER4043 Al-Si filler metal. The microhardness and microstructure of the joint are investigated. An intermetallic layer is found on the surface of the welding seam and SS400 steel sheet. The hardness of the intermetallic layer is examined using the Vickers hardness test. The average hardness values at the Intermetallic (IMC) layer zone and without the IMC layer zone were higher than that of the welding wire ER4043. The tensile strength test showed a fracture at the intermetallic layer when the tensile strength is 225.9 MPa. The tensile value test indicated the average of welds was equivalent to the 85% tensile strength of the A5052 aluminum alloy. The thickness of the intermetallic layers is non-uniform at different positions with the ranges from 1.95 to 5 μm. The quality of the butt joint is better if the intermetallic layer is minimized. The Si crystals which appeared at the welding seam, indicating that this element participated actively during the welding process, also contributed to the IMC layer’s formation. PMID:28793708

An Investigation of the Microstructure of an Intermetallic Layer in Welding Aluminum Alloys to Steel by MIG Process.

PubMed

Nguyen, Quoc Manh; Huang, Shyh-Chour

2015-12-02

Butt joints of A5052 aluminum alloy and SS400 steel, with a new type of chamfered edge, are welded by means of metal inert gas welding and ER4043 Al-Si filler metal. The microhardness and microstructure of the joint are investigated. An intermetallic layer is found on the surface of the welding seam and SS400 steel sheet. The hardness of the intermetallic layer is examined using the Vickers hardness test. The average hardness values at the Intermetallic (IMC) layer zone and without the IMC layer zone were higher than that of the welding wire ER4043. The tensile strength test showed a fracture at the intermetallic layer when the tensile strength is 225.9 MPa. The tensile value test indicated the average of welds was equivalent to the 85% tensile strength of the A5052 aluminum alloy. The thickness of the intermetallic layers is non-uniform at different positions with the ranges from 1.95 to 5 μm. The quality of the butt joint is better if the intermetallic layer is minimized. The Si crystals which appeared at the welding seam, indicating that this element participated actively during the welding process, also contributed to the IMC layer's formation.

Effect of Interfacial Reaction on the Mechanical Performance of Steel to Aluminum Dissimilar Ultrasonic Spot Welds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Lei; Wang, Li; Chen, Ying-Chun; Robson, Joe D.; Prangnell, Philip B.

2016-01-01

The early stages of formation of intermetallic compounds (IMC) have been investigated in dissimilar aluminum to steel welds, manufactured by high power (2.5 kW) ultrasonic spot welding (USW). To better understand the influence of alloy composition, welds were produced between a low-carbon steel (DC04) and two different aluminum alloys (6111 and 7055). The joint strengths were measured in lap shear tests and the formation and growth behavior of IMCs at the weld interface were characterized by electron microscopy, for welding times from 0.2 to 2.4 seconds. With the material combinations studied, the η (Fe2Al5) intermetallic phase was found to form first, very rapidly in the initial stage of welding, with a discontinuous island morphology. Continuous layers of η and then θ (FeAl3) phase were subsequently seen to develop on extending the welding time to greater than 0.7 second. The IMC layer formed in the DC04-AA7055 combination grew thicker than for the DC04-AA6111 welds, despite both weld sets having near identical thermal histories. Zinc was also found to be dissolved in the IMC phases when welding with the AA7055 alloy. After post-weld aging of the aluminum alloy, fracture in the lap shear tests always occurred along the joint interface; however, the DC04-AA6111 welds had higher fracture energy than the DC04-AA7055 combination.

About properties of ZrO2 thermal protective coatings obtained from spherical powder mixtures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berdnik, O. B.; Tsareva, I. N.; Tarasenko, Yu P.

2017-05-01

It is developed the technology of high-energy plasma spraying of the zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) thermal protective coating on the basis of ZrO2 tetragonal and cubic phases with the spheroidal grain shape and the columnar substructure, with the total porosity P = 4 %, the hardness HV = 12 GPa, the roughness parameter R a ˜ 6 μm, the thickness 0.3-3 mm. As a sublayer it is used the heat-resistant coating of “Ni-Co-Cr-Al-Y” system with an intermetallic phase composition and the layered microstructure of the grains.

Two-phase Fluid Selection for High-temperature Automotive Platforms

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

cases, extra work by researchers can be done to uprate the device, either by parameter conformance, parameter re-characterization, or stress balancing...chemical reactivity , noble metal oxidization, intermetallic growth, CTE mismatch and other failure mechanisms are an issue with wide bandgap...21005-1852 1 US ARMY TARDEC ATTN AMSRD TAR E/ PWR C SPANGLER 6501 E 11 MILE RD, BLDG 212 WARREN MI 48397-5000 1 UNIV OF MARYLAND

Spark Plasma Sintering of a Gas Atomized Al7075 Alloy: Microstructure and Properties

PubMed Central

Molnárová, Orsolya; Málek, Přemysl; Lukáč, František; Chráska, Tomáš

2016-01-01

The powder of an Al7075 alloy was prepared by gas atomization. A combination of cellular, columnar, and equiaxed dendritic-like morphology was observed in individual powder particles with continuous layers of intermetallic phases along boundaries. The cells are separated predominantly by high-angle boundaries, the areas with dendritic-like morphology usually have a similar crystallographic orientation. Spark plasma sintering resulted in a fully dense material with a microstructure similar to that of the powder material. The continuous layers of intermetallic phases are replaced by individual particles located along internal boundaries, coarse particles are formed at the surface of original powder particles. Microhardness measurements revealed both artificial and natural ageing behavior similar to that observed in ingot metallurgy material. The minimum microhardness of 81 HV, observed in the sample annealed at 300 °C, reflects the presence of coarse particles. The peak microhardness of 160 HV was observed in the sample annealed at 500 °C and then aged at room temperature. Compression tests confirmed high strength combined with sufficient plasticity. Annealing even at 500 °C does not significantly influence the distribution of grain sizes—about 45% of the area is occupied by grains with the size below 10 µm. PMID:28774126

Effect of Mn and AlTiB Addition and Heattreatment on the Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of Al-Si-Fe-Cu-Zr Alloy.

PubMed

Yoo, Hyo-Sang; Kim, Yong-Ho; Lee, Seong-Hee; Son, Hyeon-Taek

2018-09-01

The microstructure and mechanical properties of as-extruded Al-0.1 wt%Si-0.2 wt%Fe- 0.4 wt%Cu-0.04 wt%Zr-xMn-xAlTiB (x = 1.0 wt%) alloys under various annealing processes were investigated and compared. After the as-cast billets were kept at 400 °C for 1 hr, hot extrusion was carried out with a reduction ratio of 38:1. In the case of the as-extruded Al-Si-Fe-Cu-Zr alloy at annealed at 620 °C, large equiaxed grain was observed. When the Mn content is 1.0 wt%, the phase exhibits a skeleton morphology, the phase formation in which Mn participated. Also, the volume fraction of the intermetallic compounds increased with Mn and AlTiB addition. For the Al-0.1Si-0.2Fe-0.4Cu-0.04Zr alloy with Mn and AlTiB addition from 1.0 wt%, the ultimate tensile strength increased from 100.47 to 119.41 to 110.49 MPa. The tensile strength of the as-extruded alloys improved with the addition of Mn and AlTiB due to the formation of Mn and AlTiB-containing intermetallic compounds.

Wetting of Sn-Zn-Ga and Sn-Zn-Na Alloys on Al and Ni Substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gancarz, Tomasz; Bobrowski, Piotr; Pawlak, Sylwia; Schell, Norbert; Chulist, Robert; Janik, Katarzyna

2018-01-01

Wetting of Al and Ni substrate by Sn-Zn eutectic-based alloys with 0.5 (wt.%) of Ga and 0.2 (wt.%) of Na was studied using the sessile drop method in the presence of ALU33® flux. Spreading tests were performed for 60 s, 180 s, and 480 s of contact, at temperatures of 503 K, 523 K and 553 K (230°C, 250°C, and 280°C). After cleaning the flux residue from solidified samples, the spreading areas of Sn-Zn0.5Ga and Sn-Zn0.2Na on Al and Ni substrate were determined. Selected, solidified solder-pad couples were cross-sectioned and subjected to scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction study and synchrotron measurements of the interfacial microstructure and identification of the phases. The growth of the intermetallic Ni5Zn21 phase layer was studied at the solder/Ni substrate interface, and the kinetics of the formation and growth of the intermetallic layer were determined. The formation of interlayers was not observed on the Al pads. On the contrary, dissolution of the Al substrate and migration of Al-rich particles into the bulk of the solder were observed.

Laser Indirect Shock Welding of Fine Wire to Metal Sheet

PubMed Central

Wang, Xiao; Huang, Tao; Luo, Yapeng; Liu, Huixia

2017-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to present an advanced method for welding fine wire to metal sheet, namely laser indirect shock welding (LISW). This process uses silica gel as driver sheet to accelerate the metal sheet toward the wire to obtain metallurgical bonding. A series of experiments were implemented to validate the welding ability of Al sheet/Cu wire and Al sheet/Ag wire. It was found that the use of a driver sheet can maintain high surface quality of the metal sheet. With the increase of laser pulse energy, the bonding area of the sheet/wire increased and the welding interfaces were nearly flat. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) results show that the intermetallic phases were absent and a short element diffusion layer which would limit the formation of the intermetallic phases emerging at the welding interface. A tensile shear test was used to measure the mechanical strength of the welding joints. The influence of laser pulse energy on the tensile failure modes was investigated, and two failure modes, including interfacial failure and failure through the wire, were observed. The nanoindentation test results indicate that as the distance to the welding interface decreased, the microhardness increased due to the plastic deformation becoming more violent. PMID:28895900

Defect investigations of micron sized precipitates in Al alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klobes, B.; Korff, B.; Balarisi, O.; Eich, P.; Haaks, M.; Kohlbach, I.; Maier, K.; Sottong, R.; Staab, T. E. M.

2011-01-01

A lot of light aluminium alloys achieve their favourable mechanical properties, especially their high strength, due to precipitation of alloying elements. This class of age hardenable Al alloys includes technologically important systems such as e.g. Al-Mg-Si or Al-Cu. During ageing different precipitates are formed according to a specific precipitation sequence, which is always directed onto the corresponding intermetallic equilibrium phase. Probing the defect state of individual precipitates requires high spatial resolution as well as high chemical sensitivity. Both can be achieved using the finely focused positron beam provided by the Bonn Positron Microprobe (BPM) [1] in combination with the High Momentum Analysis (HMA) [2]. Employing the BPM, structures in the micron range can be probed by means of the spectroscopy of the Doppler broadening of annihilation radiation (DBAR). On the basis of these prerequisites single precipitates of intermetallic phases in Al-Mg-Si and Al-Cu, i.e. Mg2Si and Al2Cu, were probed. A detailed interpretation of these measurements necessarily relies on theoretical calculations of the DBAR of possible annihilation sites. These were performed employing the DOPPLER program. However, previous to the DBAR calculation the structures, which partly contain vacancies, were relaxed using the ab-initio code SIESTA, i.e. the atomic positions in presence of a vacancy were recalculated.

Phase change in CoTi2 induced by MeV electron irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zensho, Akihiro; Sato, Kazuhisa; Yasuda, Hidehiro; Mori, Hirotaro

2018-07-01

The phase change induced by MeV electron irradiation in the intermetallic compound E93-CoTi2 was investigated using high-voltage electron microscopy. Under MeV electron irradiation, CoTi2 was first transformed into an amorphous phase and, with continued irradiation, crystallite formation in the amorphous phase (i.e. formation of crystallites of a solid-solution phase within the amorphous phase) was induced. The critical temperature for amorphisation was around 250 K. The total dose (dpa) required for crystallite formation (i.e. that required for partial crystallisation) was high (i.e. 27-80 dpa) and, even after prolonged irradiation, the amorphous phase was retained in the irradiated sample. Such partial crystallisation behaviour of amorphous Co33Ti67 was clearly different from the crystallisation behaviour (i.e. amorphous-to-solid solution, polymorphous transformation) of amorphous Cr67Ti33 reported in the literature. A possible cause of the difference is discussed.

Influence of severe plastic deformation on intermetallic particles in Mg-12 wt.%Zn alloy investigated using transmission electron microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Němec, M., E-mail: nemecm@fzu.cz

The in-depth microstructural characterization of intermetallic particles in an Mg-12 wt.%Zn binary alloy subjected to a severe plastic deformation is presented. The alloy was processed by four passes via equal channel angular pressing with an applied back pressure at a gradually decreasing temperature and analyzed using transmission electron microscopy techniques to observe the influence of processing on intermetallic particles. The results are compared with the initial state of the material prior to severe plastic deformation. The microstructural evolution of the α-Mg matrix and the Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25}, Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} and MgZn{sub 2} was analyzed using bright field imaging, selectedmore » area electron diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and high-angle annular dark field imaging in scanning mode. The plastic deformation process influenced the α-Mg matrix and each type of intermetallic particle. The α-Mg matrix consisted of two types of areas. The first type of area had a highly deformed structure, and the second type of area had a partially recrystallized structure with an average grain size of approximately 250 nm. The Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} microparticles exhibited distinct forms in the α-Mg matrix that were characterized as a single-crystalline form, a nano-crystalline form and a broken up form. No evidence of Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} nanoparticles within the α-Mg matrix was found in the microstructure, which indicates their dissolution or phase transformation during the deformation process. MgZn{sub 2} nanoparticles exhibited different behavior in both types of α-Mg matrix. Two orientation relationships toward the highly deformed α-Mg matrix were observed; however, there was no relationship toward the partially recrystallized α-Mg matrix. Additionally, the growth of the MgZn{sub 2} nanoparticles was different in the two types of α-Mg matrix. The Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} nanoparticles inside Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} microparticles exhibited a distinct behavior within the single-crystalline or nano-crystalline form of the parent Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} microparticles. The Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} + Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} eutectic compound was confirmed for both forms of the parent Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} microparticles, and the growth of Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} nanoparticles is discussed. - Highlights: •Comprehensive microstructure characterization of Mg-12 wt.%Zn alloy after ECAP-BP •TEM analysis of changes of intermetallic phases caused by SPD •Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} particles exhibit nano-crystalline regions with grain size below 100 nm. •MgZn{sub 2} preserved its orientation relationship toward highly deformed α-Mg after SPD. •Existence of Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} + Mg{sub 51}Zn{sub 20} eutectic remained for each Mg{sub 21}Zn{sub 25} particle form.« less

Effects of filling material and laser power on the formation of intermetallic compounds during laser-assisted friction stir butt welding of steel and aluminum alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fei, Xinjiang; Jin, Xiangzhong; Peng, Nanxiang; Ye, Ying; Wu, Sigen; Dai, Houfu

2016-11-01

In this paper, two kinds of materials, Ni and Zn, are selected as filling material during laser-assisted friction stir butt welding of Q235 steel and 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, and their influences on the formation of intermetallic compounds on the steel/aluminum interface of the joints were first studied. SEM was used to analyze the profile of the intermetallic compound layer and the fractography of tensile fracture surfaces. In addition, EDS was applied to investigate the types of the intermetallic compounds. The results indicate that a thin iron-abundant intermetallic compound layer forms and ductile fracture mode occurs when Ni is added, but a thick aluminum-abundant intermetallic compound layer generates and brittle fracture mode occurs when Zn is added. So the tensile strength of the welds with Ni as filling material is greater than that with Zn as filling material. Besides, the effect of laser power on the formation of intermetallic compound layer when Ni is added was investigated. The preheated temperature field produced by laser beam in the cross section of workpiece was calculated, and the tensile strength of the joints at different laser powers was tested. Results show that only when suitable laser power is adopted, can suitable preheating temperature of the steel reach, then can thin intermetallic compound layer form and high tensile strength of the joints reach. Either excessive or insufficient laser power will reduce the tensile strength of the joints.

Effect of Bonding Temperature on Interfacial Reaction and Mechanical Properties of Diffusion-Bonded Joint Between Ti-6Al-4V and 304 Stainless Steel Using Nickel as an Intermediate Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thirunavukarasu, Gopinath; Kundu, Sukumar; Mishra, Brajendra; Chatterjee, Subrata

2014-04-01

An investigation was carried out on the solid-state diffusion bonding between Ti-6Al-4V (TiA) and 304 stainless steel (SS) using pure nickel (Ni) of 200- μm thickness as an intermediate material prepared in vacuum in the temperature range from 973 K to 1073 K (700 °C to 800 °C) in steps of 298 K (25 °C) using uniaxial compressive pressure of 3 MPa and 60 minutes as bonding time. Scanning electron microscopy images, in backscattered electron mode, had revealed existence of layerwise Ti-Ni-based intermetallics such as either Ni3Ti or both Ni3Ti and NiTi at titanium alloy-nickel (TiA/Ni) interface, whereas nickel-stainless steel (Ni/SS) diffusion zone was free from intermetallic phases for all joints processed. Chemical composition of the reaction layers was determined in atomic percentage by energy dispersive spectroscopy and confirmed by X-ray diffraction study. Room-temperature properties of the bonded joints were characterized using microhardness evaluation and tensile testing. The maximum hardness value of ~800 HV was observed at TiA/Ni interface for the bond processed at 1073 K (800 °C). The hardness value at Ni/SS interface for all the bonds was found to be ~330 HV. Maximum tensile strength of ~206 MPa along with ~2.9 pct ductility was obtained for the joint processed at 1023 K (750 °C). It was observed from the activation study that the diffusion rate at TiA/Ni interface is lesser than that at the Ni/SS interface. From microhardness profile, fractured surfaces and fracture path, it was demonstrated that failure of the joints was initiated and propagated apparently at the TiA/Ni interface near Ni3Ti intermetallic phase.

Friction stir welding joint of dissimilar materials between AZ31B magnesium and 6061 aluminum alloys: Microstructure studies and mechanical characterizations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mohammadi, J.; Behnamian, Y.; Mostafaei, A., E-mail: amir.mostafaei@gmail.com

2015-03-15

Friction stir welding is an efficient manufacturing method for joining dissimilar alloys, which can dramatically reduce grain sizes and offer high mechanical joint efficiency. Lap FSW joints between dissimilar AZ31B and Al 6061 alloy sheets were made at various tool rotation and travel speeds. Rotation and travel speeds varied between 560–1400 r/min and 16–40 mm/min respectively, where the ratio between these parameters was such that nearly constant pitch distances were applied during welding. X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), optical microscopy images (OM), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) and scanning electron microscopy equipped with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) were used to investigatemore » the microstructures of the joints welded. Intermetallic phases including Al{sub 12}Mg{sub 17} (γ) and Al{sub 3}Mg{sub 2} (β) were detected in the weld zone (WZ). For different tool rotation speeds, the morphology of the microstructure in the stir zone changed significantly with travel speed. Lap shear tensile test results indicated that by simultaneously increasing the tool rotation and travel speeds to 1400 r/min and 40 mm/min, the joint tensile strength and ductility reached a maximum. Microhardness measurements and tensile stress–strain curves indicated that mechanical properties were affected by FSW parameters and mainly depended on the formation of intermetallic compounds in the weld zone. In addition, a debonding failure mode in the Al/Mg dissimilar weld nugget was investigated by SEM and surface fracture studies indicated that the presence of intermetallic compounds in the weld zone controlled the failure mode. XRD analysis of the fracture surface indicated the presence of brittle intermetallic compounds including Al{sub 12}Mg{sub 17} (γ) and Al{sub 3}Mg{sub 2} (β). - Highlights: • Dissimilar Al/Mg joint was obtained by lap friction stir welding technique. • Effect of rotation and travel speeds on the formation of intermetallic compounds • Microstructure and chemical studies including metallography, XRD, SEM-EDS, and EPMA • Mechanical property tests such as stress–strain curves, failure load and hardness • IMCs as Al{sub 3}Mg{sub 2} and Al{sub 12}Mg{sub 17} were identified in weld nugget and at Al/Mg interface.« less

Titanium aluminide intermetallic alloys with improved wear resistance

DOEpatents

Qu, Jun; Lin, Hua-Tay; Blau, Peter J.; Sikka, Vinod K.

2014-07-08

The invention is directed to a method for producing a titanium aluminide intermetallic alloy composition having an improved wear resistance, the method comprising heating a titanium aluminide intermetallic alloy material in an oxygen-containing environment at a temperature and for a time sufficient to produce a top oxide layer and underlying oxygen-diffused layer, followed by removal of the top oxide layer such that the oxygen-diffused layer is exposed. The invention is also directed to the resulting oxygen-diffused titanium aluminide intermetallic alloy, as well as mechanical components or devices containing the improved alloy composition.

Grain refinement of 7075Al alloy microstructures by inoculation with Al-Ti-B master alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hotea, V.; Juhasz, J.; Cadar, F.

2017-05-01

This paper aims to bring some clarification on grain refinement and modification of high strength alloys used in aerospace technique. In this work it was taken into account 7075 Al alloy, and the melt treatment was carried out by placing in the form of master alloy wire ternary AlTiB the casting trough at 730°C. The morphology of the resulting microstructures was characterized by optical microscopy. Micrographs unfinished and finished with pre-alloy containing ternary Al5Ti1B evidence fine crystals, crystal containing no columnar structure and highlights the size of the dendrites, and intermetallic phases occurring at grain boundaries in Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy. It has been found that these intermetallic compounds are MgZn2 type. AlTiB master alloys finishing ensures a fine eutectic structure, which determines the properties of hardware and improving the mechanical properties of aluminum alloys used in aeronautical engineering.

Formation of Intermetallic Phases in Al-Sc Alloys Prepared by Molten Salt Electrolysis at Elevated Temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zengjie; Guan, Chunyang; Liu, Qiaochu; Xue, Jilai

Molten salts electrolysis method to prepare Al-RE alloys has attracted increasing attention recently. CaCl2 and Na3AlF6 were the most often used melts for this purpose. In this work, Al-Sc alloys prepared by electrolytic deposition process in both CaCl2 and Na3AlF6 melts were investigated, respectively. It was found that Sc distributes almost uniformly and Sc contents increase with increasing current intensity in both melts. Current efficiency was measured for comparison among various current densities applied. The alloy products were analyzed using XRD and SEM, where the formation behaviors of Al-Sc intermetallics were investigated in details. The experimental and theoretical results demonstrate that Al3Sc and Al0.968Sc0.032 are the major precipitates in the Al-Sc alloys prepared by molten electrolysis. The results are useful for selection and optimization of the molten salts compositions and the parameters of electrolysis operation.

Infiltration processing of metal matrix composites using coated ceramic particulates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leon-Patino, Carlos Alberto

2001-07-01

A new process was developed to fabricate particulate metal matrix composites (MMCs). The process involves three steps: (1) modifying the particulate surface by metal coating, (2) forming a particulate porous compact; and (3) introducing metal into the channel network by vacuum infiltration. MMCs with different reinforcements, volume fractions, and sizes can be produced by this technique. Powders of alumina and silicon carbide were successfully coated with nickel and copper in preparation for infiltration with molten aluminum. Electroless Ni and Cu deposition was used since it enhances the wettability of the reinforcements for composite fabrication. While Cu deposits were polycrystalline, traces of phosphorous co-deposited from the electroless bath gave an amorphous Ni-P coating. The effect of metal coating on wetting behavior was evaluated at 800°C on plain and metal-coated ceramic plates using a sessile drop technique. The metallic films eliminated the non-wetting behavior of the uncoated ceramics, leading to equilibrium contact angles in the order of 12° and below 58° for Ni and Cu coated ceramics, respectively. The spreading data indicated that local diffusion at the triple junction was the governing mechanism of the wetting process. Precipitation of intermetallic phases in the drop/ceramic interface delayed the formation of Al4C3. Infiltration with molten Al showed that the coated-particulates are suitable as reinforcing materials for fabricating MMCs, giving porosity-free components with a homogeneously distributed reinforcing phase. The coating promoted easy metal flow through the preform, compared to the non-infiltration behavior of the uncoated counterparts. Liquid state diffusion kinetics due to temperature dependent viscosity forces controlled the infiltration process. Microstructural analysis indicated the formation of intermetallic phases such as CuAl 2, in the case of Cu coating, and Ni2Al3 and NiAl 3 when Ni-coated powders were infiltrated. The overall Ni and Cu content increased from bottom to top of the samples due to dissolution of the metal film by the stream of liquid Al during infiltration. The strengths of the Al/Ni-SiC composites, measured by four-point bending, were 205 and 225 MPa for samples reinforced with 78 mum and 49 mum Ni-SiC, respectively. The mode of fracture was mainly controlled by SiC particle fracture.

Self-healing liquid/solid state battery

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Burke, Paul J.; Chung, Brice H.V.; Phadke, Satyajit R.

A battery system that exchanges energy with an external device is provided. The battery system includes a positive electrode having a first metal or alloy, a negative electrode having a second metal or alloy, and an electrolyte including a salt of the second metal or alloy. The positive electrode, the negative electrode, and the electrolyte are in a liquid phase at an operating temperature during at least one portion of operation. The positive electrode is entirely in a liquid phase in one charged state and includes a solid phase in another charged state. The solid phase of the positive electrodemore » includes a solid intermetallic formed by the first and the second metals or alloys. Methods of storing electrical energy from an external circuit using such a battery system are also provided.« less

Recent Developments for Ultrasonic-Assisted Friction Stir Welding: Joining, Testing, Corrosion - an Overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomä, M.; Wagner, G.; Straß, B.; Conrad, C.; Wolter, B.; Benfer, S.; Fürbeth, W.

2016-03-01

Due to the steadily increasing demand on innovative manufacturing processes, modern lightweight construction concepts become more and more important. Especially joints of dissimilar metals offer a variety of advantages due to their high potential for lightweight construction. The focus of the investigations was Al/Mg-joints. Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is an efficient process to realize high strength joints between these materials in ductile condition. Furthermore, for a simultaneous transmission of power ultrasound during the FSW-process (US-FSW) a positive effect on the achievable tensile strength of the Al/Mg-joints was proven. In the present work the industrial used die cast alloys EN AC-48000 (AlSi12CuNiMg) and AZ80 (MgAl8Zn) were joined by a machining center modified especially for Ultrasound Supported Friction Stir Welding. The appearing welding zone and the formation of intermetallic phases under the influence of power ultrasound were examined in particular. In order to identify optimal process parameters extensive preliminary process analyzes have been carried out. Following this, an ultrasound-induced more intensive stirring of the joining zone and as a result of this a considerably modified intermetallic zone was detected. At the same time an increase of the tensile strength of about 25% for US-FSW-joints and for fatigue an up to three times higher number of cycles to failure in comparison to a conventional welding process was observed. Moreover, detailed corrosion analyzes have shown that especially the welding zone was influenced by the corrosive attack. To expand and deepen the knowledge of the US-FSW-process further material combinations such as Ti/Steel and Al/Steel will be considered in future.

Microstructure Characterization Of Lead-Free Solders Depending On Alloy Composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panchenko, Iuliana; Mueller, Maik; Wolter, Klaus-Juergen

2010-11-01

Fatigue and crack nucleation in solder joints is basically associated with changes in the microstructure. Therefore the microstructure evolution of SnAgCu solder joints during solidification and subsequent application is an important subject for reliability investigations and physics of failure analysis. The scope of this study is a systematic overview of the as-cast microstructures in small sized lead-free SnAgCu solder spheres after solidification. A total of 32 alloy compositions have been investigated with varying Ag content from 0 to 5 wt.% and varying Cu content from 0 to 1.2 wt.%. The solder spheres had a diameter of approx. 270 μm and were all manufactured under the similar conditions. Subsequent cross-sectioning was carried out in order to analyze the microstructure by optical and electron microscopy as well as Electron Backscatter Diffraction and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. The results allow a comprehensive overview of the dependence of the as-cast microstructure on the solder composition. It is shown that strong changes in microstructure can be caused by small changes in solder composition. In addition, a solidification phenomenon known as cyclic twinning has been found in the samples. Three different microstructures related to that phenomenon will be presented and detailed characterizations of these structures are given in this study. These microstructures differ in their appearance by solidification morphology, phase distribution as well as grain structure and can be described as follows: 1. large dentritic areas of different grain orientations which are characterized by approx. 60° twin boundaries; 2. areas of small β-Sn cells with approx. 60° twin relation and larger intermetallic precipitates; 3. large grains consisting of a β-Sn matrix with very fine intermetallic precipitates and high angle grain boundaries between adjacent grains.

FP-LAPW study of structural, electronic, elastic, mechanical and thermal properties of AlFe intermetallic

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jain, Ekta, E-mail: jainekta05@gmail.com; Pagare, Gitanjali, E-mail: gita-pagare@yahoo.co.in; Sanyal, S. P., E-mail: sps.physicsbu@gmail.com

2016-05-06

The structural, electronic, elastic, mechanical and thermal properties of AlFe intermetallic compound in B{sub 2}-type (CsCl) structure have been investigated using first-principles calculations. The exchange-correlation term was treated within generalized gradient approximation. Ground state properties i.e. lattice constants (a{sub 0}), bulk modulus (B) and first-order pressure derivative of bulk modulus (B’) are presented. The density of states are derived which show the metallic character of present compound. Our results for C{sub 11}, C{sub 12} and C{sub 44} agree well with previous theoretical data. Using Pugh’s criteria (B/G{sub H} < 1.75), brittle character of AlFe is satisfied. In addition shear modulusmore » (G{sub H}), Young’s modulus (E), sound wave velocities and Debye temperature (θ{sub D}) have also been estimated.« less

Influence of Al grain boundaries segregations and La-doping on embrittlement of intermetallic NiAl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kovalev, Anatoly I.; Wainstein, Dmitry L.; Rashkovskiy, Alexander Yu.

2015-11-01

The microscopic nature of intergranular fracture of NiAl was experimentally investigated by the set of electron spectroscopy techniques. The paper demonstrates that embrittlement of NiAl intermetallic compound is caused by ordering of atomic structure that leads to formation of structural aluminum segregations at grain boundaries (GB). Such segregations contain high number of brittle covalent interatomic bonds. The alloying by La increases the ductility of material avoiding Al GB enrichment and disordering GB atomic structure. The influence of La alloying on NiAl mechanical properties was investigated. GB chemical composition, atomic and electronic structure transformations after La doping were investigated by AES, XPS and EELFS techniques. To qualify the interatomic bonds metallicity the Fermi level (EF) position and electrons density (neff) in conduction band were determined in both undoped and doped NiAl. Basing on experimental results the physical model of GB brittleness formation was proposed.

Single crystal growth of the Er2PdSi3 intermetallic compound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mazilu, I.; Frontzek, M.; Löser, W.; Behr, G.; Teresiak, A.; Schultz, L.

2005-02-01

Single crystals of the Er2PdSi3 intermetallic compound melting congruently at 1648 ∘C, were grown by a floating zone method with radiation heating. The control of oxygen content was the key factor to avoid oxide precipitates, which can affect effective grain selection in the crystal growth process. Crystals grown at velocities of 5 mm/h with a preferred direction close to (1 0 0) with inclination angles of about 12 ∘ against the rod axis show very distinct facets at the rod surface. The crystals are Pd-depleted and Si-rich with respect to the nominal Er2PdSi3 stoichiometry, but exhibit inferior element segregation. Measurements on oriented single crystalline samples revealed antiferromagnetic ordering below 7 K, a magnetic easy axis parallel to the (0 0 1) axis of the AlB2-type hexagonal unit cell, and anisotropic electric properties.

A bronze matryoshka: the discrete intermetalloid cluster [Sn@Cu12@Sn20](12-) in the ternary phases A12Cu12Sn21 (A = Na, K).

PubMed

Stegmaier, Saskia; Fässler, Thomas F

2011-12-14

The synthesis and crystal structure of the first ternary A-Cu-Sn intermetallic phases for the heavier alkali metals A = Na to Cs is reported. The title compounds A(12)Cu(12)Sn(21) show discrete 33-atom intermetalloid Cu-Sn clusters {Sn@Cu(12)@Sn(20)}, which are composed of {Sn(20)} pentagonal dodecahedra surrounding {Cu(12)} icosahedra with single Sn atoms at the center. Na(12)Cu(12)Sn(21) and K(12)Cu(12)Sn(21) were characterized by single-crystal XRD studies, and the successful synthesis of analogous A-Cu-Sn compounds with A = Rb and Cs is deduced from powder XRD data. The isotypic A(12)Cu(12)Sn(21) phases crystallize in the cubic space group Pn ̅3m (No. 224), with the Cu-Sn clusters adopting a face centered cubic arrangement. A formal charge of 12- can be assigned to the {Sn@Cu(12)@Sn(20)} cluster unit, and the interpretation of the title compounds as salt-like intermetallic phases featuring discrete anionic intermetalloid [Sn@Cu(12)@Sn(20)](12-) clusters separated by alkali metal cations is supported by electronic structure calculations. For both Na(12)Cu(12)Sn(21) and K(12)Cu(12)Sn(21), DFT band structure calculations (TB-LMTO-ASA) reveal a band gap. The discrete [Sn@Cu(12)@Sn(20)](12-) cluster is analyzed in consideration of the molecular orbitals obtained from hybrid DFT calculations (Gaussian 09) for the cluster anion. The [Sn@Cu(12)@Sn(20)](12-) cluster MOs can be classified with labels indicating the numbers of radial and angular nodes, in the style of spherical shell models of cluster bonding. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Undercooling Behavior and Intermetallic Compound Coalescence in Microscale Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu Solder Balls and Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu/Cu Joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, M. B.; Ma, X.; Zhang, X. P.

2012-11-01

The microstructure of microscale solder interconnects and soldering defects have long been known to have a significant influence on the reliability of electronic packaging, and both are directly related to the solidification behavior of the undercooled solder. In this study, the undercooling behavior and solidification microstructural evolution of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu solder balls with different diameters (0.76 mm, 0.50 mm, and 0.30 mm) and the joints formed by soldering these balls on Cu open pads of two diameters (0.48 mm and 0.32 mm) on a printed circuit board (PCB) substrate were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) incorporated into the reflow process. Results show that the decrease in diameter of the solder balls leads to an obvious increase in the undercooling of the balls, while the undercooling of the solder joints shows a dependence on both the diameter of the solder balls and the diameter ratio of solder ball to Cu pad (i.e., D s/ D p), and the diameter of the solder balls has a stronger influence on the undercooling of the joints than the dimension of the Cu pad. Coarse primary intermetallic compound (IMC) solidification phases were formed in the smaller solder balls and joints. The bulk Ag3Sn IMC is the primary solidification phase in the as-reflowed solder balls. Due to the interfacial reaction and dissolution of Cu atoms into the solder matrix, the primary Ag3Sn phase can be suppressed and the bulk Cu6Sn5 IMC is the only primary solidification phase in the as-reflowed solder joints.

Study of the mechanical behavior of the hydride blister/rim structure in Zircaloy-4 using in-situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lin, Jun-li; Han, Xiaochun; Heuser, Brent J.

2016-04-01

High-energy synchrotron X-ray diffraction was utilized to study the mechanical response of the f.c.c delta hydride phase, the intermetallic precipitation with hexagonal C14 lave phase and the alpha-Zr phase in the Zircaloy-4 materials with a hydride rim/blister structure near one surface of the material during in-situ uniaxial tension experiment at 200 degrees C. The f.c.c delta was the only hydride phase observed in the rim/blister structure. The conventional Rietveld refinement was applied to measure the macro-strain equivalent response of the three phases. Two regions were delineated in the applied load versus lattice strain measurement: a linear elastic strain region andmore » region that exhibited load partitioning. Load partitioning was quantified by von Mises analysis. The three phases were observed to have similar elastic modulus at 200 degrees C.« less

Heat storage in alloy transformations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Birchenall, C. E.; Gueceri, S. I.; Farkas, D.; Labdon, M. B.; Nagaswami, N.; Pregger, B.

1981-01-01

The feasibility of using metal alloys as thermal energy storage media was determined. The following major elements were studied: (1) identification of congruently transforming alloys and thermochemical property measurements; (2) development of a precise and convenient method for measuring volume change during phase transformation and thermal expansion coefficients; (3) development of a numerical modeling routine for calculating heat flow in cylindrical heat exchangers containing phase change materials; and (4) identification of materials that could be used to contain the metal alloys. Several eutectic alloys and ternary intermetallic phases were determined. A method employing X-ray absorption techniques was developed to determine the coefficients of thermal expansion of both the solid and liquid phases and the volume change during phase transformation from data obtained during one continuous experimental test. The method and apparatus are discussed and the experimental results are presented. The development of the numerical modeling method is presented and results are discussed for both salt and metal alloy phase change media.

Formation of intermetallic compound coating on magnesium AZ91 cast alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Tianping; Gao, Wei

2009-08-01

This study describes an intermetallic compound coating formed on AZ91 Mg cast alloy. The Al sputtered on AZ91 cast alloy reacted with substrate during a short period of heat treatment at 435°C, resulting in the formation of a continuous intermetallic compound layer. The short period treatment has the advantage of minimizing the negative effect on the microstructure of substrate and the mechanical properties, comparing with the reported diffusion coatings. DSC measurement and examination on the cross-section of Al sputtered samples show that local melting occurred along the Al/substrate interface at the temperature range between 430~435°C. The formation mechanism of intermetallic compound coating is proposed in terms of the local melting at Al/substrate interface. The salt water immersion test showed significant improvement in corrosion resistance of the intermetallic compound coated AZ91 cast alloy compared with the as-cast alloys.

3D study of intermetallics and their effect on the corrosion morphology of rheocast aluminium alloy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mingo, B.; Arrabal, R., E-mail: rarrabal@ucm.es; Pardo, A.

In the present study, the effect of heat treatment T6.1 on the microstructure and corrosion behaviour of rheocast aluminium alloy A356 is investigated on the basis of 2D/3D characterization techniques and electrochemical and SKPFM measurements. Heat treatment strengthens the α-Al matrix, modifies the intermetallic particles and spheroidizes eutectic Si. These changes do not modify significantly the corrosion behaviour of the alloy. 3D SEM-Tomography clearly shows that the corrosion advances in the shape of narrow paths between closely spaced intermetallics without a major influence of eutectic Si. - Highlights: • T6.1 spheroidizes Si, strengthens the matrix and modifies the intermetallics. •more » Electrochemical behaviour of untreated and heat-treated alloys is similar. • 3D SEM-Tomography provides additional information on the corrosion morphology. • Corrosion advances as paths between intermetallics with little influence of Si.« less

Synthesis and characterization of Fe-Ti-Sb intermetallic compounds: Discovery of a new Slater-Pauling phase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naghibolashrafi, N.; Keshavarz, S.; Hegde, Vinay I.; Gupta, A.; Butler, W. H.; Romero, J.; Munira, K.; LeClair, P.; Mazumdar, D.; Ma, J.; Ghosh, A. W.; Wolverton, C.

2016-03-01

Compounds of Fe, Ti, and Sb were prepared using arc melting and vacuum annealing. Fe2TiSb , expected to be a full Heusler compound crystallizing in the L 21 structure, was shown by XRD and SEM analyses to be composed of weakly magnetic grains of nominal composition Fe1.5TiSb with iron-rich precipitates in the grain boundaries. FeTiSb, a composition consistent with the formation of a half-Heusler compound, also decomposed into Fe1.5TiSb grains with Ti-Sb rich precipitates and was weakly magnetic. The dominant Fe1.5TiSb phase appears to crystallize in a defective L 21 -like structure with iron vacancies. Based on this finding, a first-principles DFT-based binary cluster expansion of Fe and vacancies on the Fe sublattice of the L 21 structure was performed. Using the cluster expansion, we computationally scanned >103 configurations and predict a novel, stable, nonmagnetic semiconductor phase to be the zero-temperature ground state. This new structure is an ordered arrangement of Fe and vacancies, belonging to the space group R 3 m , with composition Fe1.5TiSb , i.e., between the full- and half-Heusler compositions. This phase can be visualized as alternate layers of L 21 phase Fe2TiSb and C 1b phase FeTiSb, with layering along the [111] direction of the original cubic phases. Our experimental results on annealed samples support this predicted ground-state composition, but further work is required to confirm that the R 3 m structure is the ground state.

Characterisation and modelling of defect formation in direct-chill cast AZ80 alloy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mackie, D.; Robson, J.D.; Withers, P.J.

2015-06-15

Wrought magnesium alloys for demanding structural applications require high quality defect free cast feedstock. The aim of this study was to first identify and characterise typical defects in direct chill cast magnesium–aluminium–zinc (AZ) alloy billet and then use modelling to understand the origins of these defects so they can be prevented. Defects were first located using ultrasonic inspection and were then characterised using X-ray computed tomography (XCT) and serial sectioning, establishing the presence of oxide films and intermetallic particles Al{sub 8}Mn{sub 5} in all defects. A model was developed to predict the flow patterns and growth kinetics of the intermetallicmore » phases during casting, which influence the formation of defects. Simulation of the growth of the intermetallic particles demonstrated that precipitation from the liquid occurs in the mould. The combination of the entrained oxide films and intermetallic particles recirculates in the liquid metal and continues to grow, until large enough to settle, which is predicted to occur at the centre of the mould where the flow is the slowest. Based on these predictions, strategies to reduce the susceptibility to defect formation are suggested. - Highlights: • Casting defects in magnesium direct chill casting have been imaged and characterised in 3-dimensions. • The occurrences of co-located clusters of particles and oxide films have been characterised and explained. • A coupled model has been developed to help interpret the observed trend for defects located towards the centre of billets.« less

Influence of Cu Addition on the Structure, Mechanical and Corrosion Properties of Cast Mg-2%Zn Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lotfpour, M.; Emamy, M.; Dehghanian, C.; Tavighi, K.

2017-05-01

Effects of different concentrations of Cu on the structure, mechanical and corrosion properties of Mg-2%Zn alloy were studied by the use of x-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, standard tensile testing, polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. The average grain size of the alloy decreased from above 1000 μm to about 200 μm with 5 wt.% Cu addition in as-cast condition. Microstructural studies revealed that Mg-2Zn- xCu alloys matrix typically consists of primary α-Mg and MgZnCu and Mg(Zn,Cu)2 intermetallics which are mainly found at the grain boundaries. The results obtained from mechanical testing ascertained that Cu addition increased the hardness values significantly. Although the addition of 0.5 wt.% Cu improved the ultimate tensile strength and elongation values, more Cu addition (i.e., 5 wt.%) weakened the tensile properties of the alloy by introducing semi-continuous network of brittle intermetallic phases. Based on polarization test results, it can be concluded that Cu eliminates a protective film on Mg-2%Zn alloy surface. Among Mg-2%Zn- x%Cu alloys, the one containing 0.1 wt.% Cu exhibited the best anti-corrosion property. However, further Cu addition increased the volume fraction of intermetallics culminating in corrosion rate enhancement due to the galvanic couple effect. EIS and microstructural analysis also confirmed the polarization results.

Spark plasma sintering of titanium aluminide intermetallics and its composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aldoshan, Abdelhakim Ahmed

Titanium aluminide intermetallics are a distinct class of engineering materials having unique properties over conventional titanium alloys. gamma-TiAl compound possesses competitive physical and mechanical properties at elevated temperature applications compared to Ni-based superalloys. gamma-TiAl composite materials exhibit high melting point, low density, high strength and excellent corrosion resistance. Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is one of the powder metallurgy techniques where powder mixture undergoes simultaneous application of uniaxial pressure and pulsed direct current. Unlike other sintering techniques such as hot iso-static pressing and hot pressing, SPS compacts the materials in shorter time (< 10 min) with a lower temperature and leads to highly dense products. Reactive synthesis of titanium aluminide intermetallics is carried out using SPS. Reactive sintering takes place between liquid aluminum and solid titanium. In this work, reactive sintering through SPS was used to fabricate fully densified gamma-TiAl and titanium aluminide composites starting from elemental powders at different sintering temperatures. It was observed that sintering temperature played significant role in the densification of titanium aluminide composites. gamma-TiAl was the predominate phase at different temperatures. The effect of increasing sintering temperature on microhardness, microstructure, yield strength and wear behavior of titanium aluminide was studied. Addition of graphene nanoplatelets to titanium aluminide matrix resulted in change in microhardness. In Ti-Al-graphene composites, a noticeable decrease in coefficient of friction was observed due to the influence of self-lubrication caused by graphene.

The distribution alloying elements in alnico 8 and 9 magnets: Site preference of ternary Ti, Fe, Co, and Ni additions in DO 3 Fe 3Al, Co 3Al, and Ni 3Al based intermetallic phases

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Samolyuk, G. D.; Újfalussy, B.; Stocks, G. M.

Recently, interest in alnico magnetic alloys has been rekindled due to their potential to substitute for rare-earth based permanent magnets provided modest improvements in their coercivity can be achieved without loss of saturation magnetization. Recent experimental studies have indicated that atomic and magnetic structure of the two phases (one AlNi-based, the other FeCo-based) that comprise these spinodally decomposed alloy is not as simple as previously thought. A key issue that arises is the distribution of Fe, Co and Ti within the AlNi-based matrix phase. In our paper we report the results of first-principles calculations of the site preference of ternarymore » alloying additions in DO 3 Fe 3Al, Co 3Al and Ni 3Al alloys, as models for the aluminide phase. For compound compositions that are Al rich, which corresponds to experimental situation, Ti and Fe are found to occupy the sites, while Co and Ni prefer the sites of the DO 3 lattice. Finally, an important finding is that the magnetic moments of transition metals in Fe 3Al and Co 3Al are ordered ferromagnetically, whereas the Ni3Al were found to be nonmagnetic unless the Fe or Co are added as a ternary element.« less

The distribution alloying elements in alnico 8 and 9 magnets: Site preference of ternary Ti, Fe, Co, and Ni additions in DO{sub 3} Fe{sub 3}Al, Co{sub 3}Al, and Ni{sub 3}Al based intermetallic phases

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Samolyuk, G. D.; Stocks, G. M.; Újfalussy, B.

Recently, interest in alnico magnetic alloys has been rekindled due to their potential to substitute for rare-earth based permanent magnets provided modest improvements in their coercivity can be achieved without loss of saturation magnetization. Recent experimental studies have indicated that atomic and magnetic structure of the two phases (one AlNi-based, the other FeCo-based) that comprise these spinodally decomposed alloy is not as simple as previously thought. A key issue that arises is the distribution of Fe, Co, and Ti within the AlNi-based matrix phase. In this paper, we report the results of first-principles calculations of the site preference of ternarymore » alloying additions in DO{sub 3} Fe{sub 3}Al, Co{sub 3}Al, and Ni{sub 3}Al alloys, as models for the aluminide phase. For compound compositions that are Al rich, which correspond to experimental situation, Ti and Fe are found to occupy the α sites, while Co and Ni prefer the γ sites of the DO{sub 3} lattice. An important finding is that the magnetic moments of transition metals in Fe{sub 3}Al and Co{sub 3}Al are ordered ferromagnetically, whereas the Ni{sub 3}Al were found to be nonmagnetic unless the Fe or Co is added as a ternary element.« less

The distribution alloying elements in alnico 8 and 9 magnets: Site preference of ternary Ti, Fe, Co, and Ni additions in DO 3 Fe 3Al, Co 3Al, and Ni 3Al based intermetallic phases

DOE PAGES

Samolyuk, G. D.; Újfalussy, B.; Stocks, G. M.

2014-11-07

Recently, interest in alnico magnetic alloys has been rekindled due to their potential to substitute for rare-earth based permanent magnets provided modest improvements in their coercivity can be achieved without loss of saturation magnetization. Recent experimental studies have indicated that atomic and magnetic structure of the two phases (one AlNi-based, the other FeCo-based) that comprise these spinodally decomposed alloy is not as simple as previously thought. A key issue that arises is the distribution of Fe, Co and Ti within the AlNi-based matrix phase. In our paper we report the results of first-principles calculations of the site preference of ternarymore » alloying additions in DO 3 Fe 3Al, Co 3Al and Ni 3Al alloys, as models for the aluminide phase. For compound compositions that are Al rich, which corresponds to experimental situation, Ti and Fe are found to occupy the sites, while Co and Ni prefer the sites of the DO 3 lattice. Finally, an important finding is that the magnetic moments of transition metals in Fe 3Al and Co 3Al are ordered ferromagnetically, whereas the Ni3Al were found to be nonmagnetic unless the Fe or Co are added as a ternary element.« less

High Temperature Oxidation of Superalloys and Intermetallic Compounds

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-28

such as nickel aluminides (NisAI and NiAl), iron aluminides (FeAl, and Fe3AI) and titanium aluminides (TiAl and Ti3AI) are a class of advanced...80um by YAI2 phase segregation at grain boundaries preventing grain growth [6,8], other work has suggested that oxidation of titanium aluminides ...strengthened Titanium aluminides of similar composition. In this work, a study of the oxidation behavior of ingot-metallurgy processes titanium

Quantum Mechanical Approach to Understanding Structural, Electronic and Mechanical Properties of Intermetallics

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-01-26

Understanding Structural , Electronic and Mechanical Properties of Tntermetallics by A.J. Freeman, Principal Investigator ABSTRACT The primary goal of...like LI or Mg would lower EF into the minimum in the DOS and hence stabilize the L1 2 . A. Structural Phase Stability of Titanium Aluminides Most...34 Structural Stability Calculations in the Titanium -Aluminium System", Conf. on Titanium Aluminides , Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Nov. 1986

Characterization and modeling of microstructural evolution of near-eutectic tin-silver-copper solder joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zbrzezny, Adam R.

Near-eutectic Sn-Ag-Cu (SAC) solders are currently considered as major lead-free replacement candidates for Sn-Pb eutectic alloys in microelectronics applications. In this thesis, the microstructural thermal stability including recrystallization, grain growth behavior, Pb and Au contamination effects and interaction of the SAC solder with Cu and Ni substrates were investigated. The true eutectic composition of the Sn-Ag-Cu alloy was verified to be Sn3.5Ag0.9Cu wt.%, and the eutectic melting temperature was determined to be 217.4 +/- 0.8°C. The system was classified as belonging to faceting (Cu6Sn5)-faceting (Ag3Sn)-nonfaceting (Sn matrix) ternary eutectic. The most significant consequence of Pb contamination was the formation of a quaternary eutectic phase (Sn-Ag-Cu-Pb) with a melting point at 176°C. Similarly, the presence of gold in the SAC alloy led to a development of a new quaternary phase (Sn-Ag-Cu-Au) melting at 204°C. Prolonged aging of SAC-4 wt.% Au on nickel resulted in the deposition of a new, previously unreported, intermetallic (IMC) layer, ((Au1-xCUx)6Sn 5, 15 wt.% of Au) on top of the existing (Cu1-yNi y)6Sn5 layer. The interfacial products that formed during soldering to copper were Cu6Sn5 and Cu3Sn. Soldering to nickel resulted in the formation of one layer, (Cu1-yNiy) 6Sn5, which was different from the expected Ni3Sn 4 layer. A small copper content in the SAC solder (0.7 wt.%) was sufficient to promote this thermodynamic shift. Intermetallic growth on Cu during solid state aging was established to be bulk diffusion controlled. The IMC layers in the SAC system grew at a slower rate than in the Sn-Pb system. It was found that the reliability of SAC solder joints on copper was considerably better than on nickel due to copper enrichment during reflow and subsequent Cu6Sn5 intermetallic precipitation. Enhanced copper and silver diffusion followed by tin recrystallization and grain growth, cavity nucleation and subsequent micro-crack linkage formed the framework of a proposed microstructural model of solder degradation mechanisms under cyclic creep conditions. A multilayer diffusion model of the SAC/Cu couple was proposed and employed for predicting intermetallic layer growth kinetics. In general, the calculated IMC thicknesses for short and intermediate aging times were in reasonable agreement with the experimental data.

New interatomic potentials of W, Re and W-Re alloy for radiation defects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yangchun; Li, Yu-Hao; Gao, Ning; Zhou, Hong-Bo; Hu, Wangyu; Lu, Guang-Hong; Gao, Fei; Deng, Huiqiu

2018-04-01

Tungsten (W) and W-based alloys have been considered as promising candidates for plasma-facing materials (PFMs) in future fusion reactors. The formation of rhenium (Re)-rich clusters and intermetallic phases due to high energy neutron irradiation and transmutations significantly induces the hardening and embrittlement of W. In order to better understand these phenomena, in the present work, new interatomic potentials of W-W, Re-Re and W-Re, suitable for description of radiation defects in such alloys, have been developed. The fitted potentials not only reproduce the results of the formation energy, binding energy and migration energy of various radiation defects and the physical properties from the extended database obtained from DFT calculations, but also predict well the relative stability of different interstitial dislocation loops in W, as reported in experiments. These potentials are applicable for describing the evolution of defects in W and W-Re alloys, thus providing a possibility for the detailed understanding of the precipitation mechanism of Re in W under irradiation.

Characterization of Impact Initiation of Aluminum-Based Intermetallic-Forming Reactive Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-12-01

compressed intermetallic-forming aluminum-based reactive materials upon impact initiation, consisting of equi-volumetric tantalum-aluminum, tungsten-aluminum...18 2.3.4 Dynamic Energy Release Characterization using Pig Test . . . . . . 21 2.3.5 Shock Compression of Reactive Powder Mixtures...is to evaluate the reaction initiation characteristics of quasi-statically compressed intermetallic-forming aluminum-based reactive materials upon

X-ray studies of dynamic aging in an aluminum alloy subjected to severe plastic deformation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sitdikov, V.D., E-mail: svil@mail.rb.ru; Laboratory for Mechanics of Bulk Nanomaterials, Saint Petersburg State University, 28 Universitetsky pr., Saint Petersburg 198504; Chizhov, P.S.

In this work, X-ray scattering methods were applied for a quantitative characterization of the microstructure of an aluminum alloy of the Al–Mg–Si system during dynamic aging realized through the high pressure torsion technique. A qualitative and quantitative phase analysis of the alloy was performed, together with Al alloy lattice parameter determination. From the reflections broadening the effective size of the coherent scattering domains and the lattice microstrain were determined in the framework of the Halder–Wagner approach. Using the method of small-angle X-ray scattering, the quantitative characteristics of the size, shape and spatial distribution of the secondary phase particles formed inmore » the Al alloy during dynamic aging were established. In order to validate the obtained results, the method of small-angle X-ray scattering was preliminarily tested on similar samples after artificial aging and compared with the results from small-angle neutron diffraction widely known in literature. - Highlights: • Spherical fcc β-Mg2Si precipitates formed in Al 6201 alloy during dynamic aging in the course of severe plastic deformation. • The size, shape and distribution of the precipitates due to artificial and dynamic aging were revealed by SAXS method. • Monoclinic needle-like β' precipitates and Al5FeSi intermetallic phase were detected in 6201 alloy after T6 treatment.« less

Electron-Poor Polar Intermetallics: Complex Structures, Novel Clusters, and Intriguing Bonding with Pronounced Electron Delocalization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lin, Qisheng; Miller, Gordon J.

Intermetallic compounds represent an extensive pool of candidates for energy related applications stemming from magnetic, electric, optic, caloric, and catalytic properties. The discovery of novel intermetallic compounds can enhance understanding of the chemical principles that govern structural stability and chemical bonding as well as finding new applications. Valence electron-poor polar intermetallics with valence electron concentrations (VECs) between 2.0 and 3.0 e –/atom show a plethora of unprecedented and fascinating structural motifs and bonding features. Furthermore, establishing simple structure-bonding-property relationships is especially challenging for this compound class because commonly accepted valence electron counting rules are inappropriate.

Electron-Poor Polar Intermetallics: Complex Structures, Novel Clusters, and Intriguing Bonding with Pronounced Electron Delocalization

DOE PAGES

Lin, Qisheng; Miller, Gordon J.

2017-12-18

Intermetallic compounds represent an extensive pool of candidates for energy related applications stemming from magnetic, electric, optic, caloric, and catalytic properties. The discovery of novel intermetallic compounds can enhance understanding of the chemical principles that govern structural stability and chemical bonding as well as finding new applications. Valence electron-poor polar intermetallics with valence electron concentrations (VECs) between 2.0 and 3.0 e –/atom show a plethora of unprecedented and fascinating structural motifs and bonding features. Furthermore, establishing simple structure-bonding-property relationships is especially challenging for this compound class because commonly accepted valence electron counting rules are inappropriate.

Intermetallic Compounds Formed in Sn-20In-2.8Ag Solder BGA Packages with Ag/Cu Pads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, C. C.; Wang, S. S.; Huang, K. W.; Chuang, T. H.

2009-03-01

The interfacial reactions in a Sn-20In-2.8Ag solder ball grid array (BGA) package with immersion Ag surface finish are investigated. After reflow, the Ag thin film dissolves quickly into the solder matrix, and scallop-shaped intermetallic layers, with compositions of (Cu0.98Ag0.02)6(In0.59Sn0.41)5, appear at the interfaces between Sn-20In-2.8Ag solder ball and Cu pad. No evident growth of the (Cu0.98Ag0.02)6(Sn0.59In0.41)5 intermetallic compounds was observed after prolonged aging at 100 °C. However, the growth accelerated at 150 °C, with more intermetallic scallops floating into the solder matrix. The intermetallic thickness versus the square root of reaction time ( t 1/2) shows a linear relation, indicating that the growth of intermetallic compounds is diffusion-controlled. Ball shear tests show that the strength of Sn-20In-2.8Ag solder joints after reflow is 4.4 N, which increases to 5.18 N and 5.14 N after aging at 100 and 150 °C, respectively.

Dynamic Response of Monolithic and Laminate/Particulate Reactive Mixtures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Chung-Ting

Two dynamic compression methods were applied to a monolithic metal and reactive mixtures to investigate their responses: (a) Dynamic experiments using a split Hopkinson pressure bar were applied to reactive mixtures densified by explosive consolidation in order to establish their mechanical response and failure mechanisms. (b) Laser compression and release, which can impart high stresses, up to hundreds GPa, in times of nanoseconds and fractions thereof, was applied to establish the spalling strength of vanadium and the reaction threshold for Ni/Al laminates. The spallation and fragmentation exhibited by recovered mono- and poly-crystalline vanadium prove that the laser intensities and crystal structure play important roles in determining spall strength, fragmentation, and microstructural processes. Densified reactive mixtures with different microstructures (Ni, Mo, W, Nb and Ta with Al) were subjected to the quasi-static and dynamic strain rates. Two distinct failure mechanisms, axial splitting and shear failure, were observed in the recovered specimens. Axial splitting occurred when the bonding between the powders was poor; shear failure was primarily associated with extensive deformation of continuous Ta and Nb phases. Finite element simulations provided valuable information in interpreting the experimental results and predicting failure mechanisms akin to those observed. Ni/Al laminates were subjected to laser compression. The strain rates varied from 105 to 108 s-1, and the initial stress varied from 30 to ˜300 GPa. It is found the thickness of the lamellar and the interlaminar bonding strength are the two critical factors in determining mechanical failure. The intermetallic reaction leading to Ni3Al and NiAl were produced by the laser energies and laser pulse durations in direct laser shock experiments. Laser-driven compression was also applied to study the high temperature synthesis in nano-scale Ni/Al laminates with bilayer thickness 54 nm. Intermetallic phases, NiAl and NiAl 3, were found on the plasma stagnated laminates. However, the self-propagating high temperature synthesis (SHS) did not self-sustain in the micro-scale laminate because of the short duration of the pulse.

Epitaxial Growth of Intermetallic MnPt Films on Oxides and Large Exchange Bias

DOE PAGES

Liu, Zhiqi; Biegalski, Michael D; Hsu, Mr. S. L.; ...

2015-11-05

We achieved a high-quality epitaxial growth of inter­metallic MnPt films on oxides, with potential for multiferroic heterostructure applications. Also, antisite-stabilized spin-flipping induces ferromagnetism in MnPt films, although it is robustly antiferromagnetic in bulk. Moreover, highly ordered antiferromagnetic MnPt films exhibit superiorly large exchange coupling with a ferromagnetic layer.

Methods of producing cermet materials and methods of utilizing same

DOEpatents

Kong, Peter C [Idaho Falls, ID

2008-12-30

Methods of fabricating cermet materials and methods of utilizing the same such as in filtering particulate and gaseous pollutants from internal combustion engines having intermetallic and ceramic phases. The cermet material may be made from a transition metal aluminide phase and an alumina phase. The mixture may be pressed to form a green compact body and then heated in a nitrogen-containing atmosphere so as to melt aluminum particles and form the cermet. Filler materials may be added to increase the porosity or tailor the catalytic properties of the cermet material. Additionally, the cermet material may be reinforced with fibers or screens. The cermet material may also be formed so as to pass an electrical current therethrough to heat the material during use.

Methods of fabricating cermet materials and methods of utilizing same

DOEpatents

Kong, Peter C.

2006-04-04

Methods of fabricating cermet materials and methods of utilizing the same such as in filtering particulate and gaseous pollutants from internal combustion engines having intermetallic and ceramic phases. The cermet material may be made from a transition metal aluminide phase and an aluminia phase. The mixture may be pressed to form a green compact body and then heated in a nitrogen-containing atmosphere so as to melt aluminum particles and form the cermet. Filler materials may be added to increase the porosity or tailor the catalytic properties of the cermet material. Additionally, the cermet material may be reinforced with fibers or screens. The cermet material may also be formed so as to pass an electrical current therethrough to heat the material during use.

Nucleation of the diamond phase in aluminium-solid solutions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hornbogen, E.; Mukhopadhyay, A. K.; Starke, E. A., Jr.

1993-01-01

Precipitation was studied from fcc solid solutions with silicon, germanium, copper and magnesium. Of all these elements only silicon and germanium form diamond cubic (DC) precipitates in fcc Al. Nucleation of the DC structure is enhanced if both types of atom are dissolved in the fcc lattice. This is interpreted as due to atomic size effects in the prenucleation stage. There are two modes of interference of fourth elements with nucleation of the DC phase in Al + Si, Ge. The formation of the DC phase is hardly affected if the atoms (for example, copper) are rejected from the (Si, Ge)-rich clusters. If additional types of atom are attracted by silicon and/or germanium, DC nuclei are replaced by intermetallic compounds (for example Mg2Si).

Method for solid state crystal growth

DOEpatents

Nolas, George S.; Beekman, Matthew K.

2013-04-09

A novel method for high quality crystal growth of intermetallic clathrates is presented. The synthesis of high quality pure phase crystals has been complicated by the simultaneous formation of both clathrate type-I and clathrate type-II structures. It was found that selective, phase pure, single-crystal growth of type-I and type-II clathrates can be achieved by maintaining sufficient partial pressure of a chemical constituent during slow, controlled deprivation of the chemical constituent from the primary reactant. The chemical constituent is slowly removed from the primary reactant by the reaction of the chemical constituent vapor with a secondary reactant, spatially separated from the primary reactant, in a closed volume under uniaxial pressure and heat to form the single phase pure crystals.

Development of Low Cost Gas Atomization of Precursor Powders for Simplified ODS Alloy Production

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Anderson, Iver

2014-08-05

A novel gas atomization reaction synthesis (GARS) method was developed in this project to enable production (at our partner’s facility) a precursor Ni-Cr-Y-Ti powder with a surface oxide and an internal rare earth (RE) containing intermetallic compound (IMC) phase. Consolidation and heat-treatment experiments were performed at Ames Lab to promote the exchange of oxygen from the surface oxide to the RE intermetallic to form nano-metric oxide dispersoids. Alloy selection was aided by an internal oxidation and serial grinding experiments at Ames Lab and found that Hf-containing alloys may form more stable dispersoids than Ti-containing alloy, i.e., the Hf-containing system exhibitedmore » five different oxide phases and two different intermetallics compared to the two oxide phases and one intermetallic in the Ti-containing alloys. Since the simpler Ti-containing system was less complex to characterize, and make observations on the effects of processing parameters, the Ti-containing system was selected by Ames Lab for experimental atomization trials at our partner. An internal oxidation model was developed at Ames Lab and used to predict the heat treatment times necessary for dispersoid formation as a function of powder size and temperature. A new high-pressure gas atomization (HPGA) nozzle was developed at Ames Lab with the aim of promoting fine powder production at scales similar to that of the high gas-flow and melt-flow of industrial atomizers. The atomization nozzle was characterized using schlieren imaging and aspiration pressure testing at Ames Lab to determine the optimum melt delivery tip geometry and atomization pressure to promote enhanced secondary atomization mechanisms. Six atomization trials were performed at our partner to investigate the effects of: gas atomization pressure and reactive gas concentration on the particle size distribution (PSD) and the oxygen content of the resulting powder. Also, the effect on the rapidly solidified microstructure (as a function of powder size) was investigated at Ames Lab as a function of reactive gas composition and bulk alloy composition. The results indicated that the pulsatile gas atomization mechanism and a significantly enhanced yield of fine powders reported in the literature for this type of process were not observed. Also it was determined that reactive gas may marginally improve the fine powder yield but further experiments are required. The oxygen content in the gas also did not have any detrimental effect on the microstructure (i.e. did not significantly reduce undercooling). On the contrary, the oxygen addition to the atomization gas may have mitigated some potent catalytic nucleation sites, but not enough to significantly alter the microstructure vs. particle size relationship. Overall the downstream injection of oxygen was not found to significantly affect either the particle size distribution or undercooling (as inferred from microstructure and XRD observations) but injection further upstream, including in the gas atomization nozzle, remains to be investigated in later work.« less

Facile solvothermal synthesis of highly active and robust Pd1.87Cu0.11Sn electrocatalyst towards direct ethanol fuel cell applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jana, Rajkumar; Dhiman, Shikha; Peter, Sebastian C.

2016-08-01

Ordered intermetallic Pd1.87Cu0.11Sn ternary electrocatalyst has been synthesized by sodium borohydride reduction of precursor salts Pd(acac)2, CuCl2.2H2O and SnCl2 using one-pot solvothermal synthesis method at 220 °C with a reaction time of 24 h. To the best of our knowledge, here for the first time we report surfactant free synthesis of a novel ordered intermetallic ternary Pd1.87Cu0.11Sn nanoparticles. The ordered structure of the catalyst has been confirmed by powder x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Composition and morphology of the nanoparticles have been confirmed through field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectrometry and TEM. The electrocatalytic activity and stability of the ternary electrocatalyst towards ethanol oxidation in alkaline medium was investigated by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry techniques. The catalyst is proved to be highly efficient and stable upto 500th cycle and even better than commercially available Pd/C (20 wt%) electrocatalysts. The specific and mass activity of the as synthesized ternary catalyst are found to be ∼4.76 and ∼2.9 times better than that of commercial Pd/C. The enhanced activity and stability of the ordered ternary Pd1.87Cu0.11Sn catalyst can make it as a promising candidate for the alkaline direct ethanol fuel cell application.

Crystal structures of the new ternary stannides La{sub 3}Mg{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 2+x} and LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2}

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Solokha, P., E-mail: pavlo.solokha@unige.it; De Negri, S.; Minetti, R.

2016-01-15

Synthesis and structural characterization of the two new lanthanum–magnesium–stannides La{sub 3}Mg{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 2+x} (0.12≤x≤0.40) and LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} (0.33≤x≤0.78) are reported. The crystal structures of these intermetallics were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and confirmed by Rietveld refinement of powder X-ray diffraction patterns of the corresponding samples. The La{sub 3}Mg{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 2+x} phase crystallizes in the hexagonal Zr{sub 3}Cu{sub 4}Si{sub 2} structure type (P6¯2m, hP9, Z=3, x=0.12(1), a=7.7974(7), c=4.8384(4) Å), which represents an ordered derivative of the hP9-ZrNiAl prototype, ubiquitous among equiatomic intermetallics. The LaMg{sub 3–x}Sn{sub 2} phase is the second representative of the trigonal LaMg{sub 3−x}Ge{sub 2}more » type, which is a superstructure of the LaLi{sub 3}Sb{sub 2} structure type (P3¯1c, hP34-0.12, Z=6, x=0.35(1), a=8.3222(9), c=14.9546(16) Å). The scheme describing the symmetry reduction/coloring with respect to the parent type is reported here with the purpose to discuss the LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} off-stoichiometry from the geometrical point of view. Structural relationships between the La–Mg–Sn ternary phases, including the already known equiatomic LaMgSn compound (oP12-TiNiSi), are presented in the framework of the AlB{sub 2}-related compounds family and discussed with the aid of group-subgroup relations in the Bärnighausen formalism. - Graphical abstract: Crystal structure of LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} viewed along the (001) direction together with the puckered layer of Mg and Sn atoms hosting Mg2, Mg3 and vacancy □. - Highlights: • Crystal structures of the new La{sub 3}Mg{sub 4−x}Sn{sub 2+x} and LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} phases were determined. • The off-stoichiometry of LaMg{sub 3−x}Sn{sub 2} was discussed from geometrical point of view. • Structural relations between the known La–Mg–Sn phases were established. • The studied compounds are related to the AlB{sub 2} type by symmetry reduction.« less

String theory, quantum phase transitions, and the emergent Fermi liquid.

PubMed

Cubrović, Mihailo; Zaanen, Jan; Schalm, Koenraad

2009-07-24

A central problem in quantum condensed matter physics is the critical theory governing the zero-temperature quantum phase transition between strongly renormalized Fermi liquids as found in heavy fermion intermetallics and possibly in high-critical temperature superconductors. We found that the mathematics of string theory is capable of describing such fermionic quantum critical states. Using the anti-de Sitter/conformal field theory correspondence to relate fermionic quantum critical fields to a gravitational problem, we computed the spectral functions of fermions in the field theory. By increasing the fermion density away from the relativistic quantum critical point, a state emerges with all the features of the Fermi liquid.

Lithium-aluminum-magnesium electrode composition

DOEpatents

Melendres, Carlos A.; Siegel, Stanley

1978-01-01

A negative electrode composition is presented for use in a secondary, high-temperature electrochemical cell. The cell also includes a molten salt electrolyte of alkali metal halides or alkaline earth metal halides and a positive electrode including a chalcogen or a metal chalcogenide as the active electrode material. The negative electrode composition includes up to 50 atom percent lithium as the active electrode constituent and a magnesium-aluminum alloy as a structural matrix. Various binary and ternary intermetallic phases of lithium, magnesium, and aluminum are formed but the electrode composition in both its charged and discharged state remains substantially free of the alpha lithium-aluminum phase and exhibits good structural integrity.

Structural, electronic and elastic properties of heavy fermion YbRh2 Laves phase compound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pawar, Harsha; Shugani, Mani; Aynyas, Mahendra; Sanyal, Sankar P.

2018-05-01

The structural, electronic and elastic properties of YbRh2 Laves phase intermetallic compound which crystallize in cubic (MgCu2-type) structure have been investigated using ab-initio full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP- LAPW) method with LDA and LDA+U approximation. The calculated ground state properties such as lattice parameter (a0), bulk modulus (B) and its pressure derivative (B') are in good agreement with available experimental and theoretical data. The electronic properties are analyzed from band structures and density of states. Elastic constants are predicted first time for this compound which obeys the stability criteria for cubic system.

Phase transformations in the hematite-metal system during mechanical alloying

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kozlov, K. A.; Shabashov, V. A.; Litvinov, A. V.; Sagaradze, V. V.

2009-04-01

Mössbauer spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction are used to show that the phase transformations in hematite α-Fe2O3-metal ( M = Fe, Ni, Ti, Zr) powder mixtures induced by severe cold plastic deformation in ball mills occur via the formation of M-Fe-O solid solutions, redox reactions with the reduction of metallic iron, and the formation of secondary M x O y oxides and M x Fe y intermetallics. Mechanical activation in a ball mill is compared to that under high-pressure shear in Bridgman anvils. The transformations that take place in a ball mill are found to have several stages and to be accelerated.

Substantial Cd-Cd Bonding in Ca6PtCd11: A Condensed Intermetallic Phase Built of Pentagonal Cd7 and Rectangular Cd4/2Pt Pyramids

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gulo, Fakhili; Samal, Saroj L.; Corbett, John D.

The new trail-breaking compound Ca6PtCd11 has been synthesized and its structural and bonding properties investigated. This unusual phase features an unprecedented degree of cadmium aggregation, including linear chains, novel Cd7 PBP aggregates, and edge-shared chains of PtCd4/2 square pyramids. Manifestations of this chemistry elsewhere has evidently been precluded in earlier work by the inclusion of larger amounts of the strong d-metal bonding Au or Pt. Under the right conditions Cd seems quite effective as an open s,p-band metal.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tan, Lizhen; Yang, Ying; Chen, Tianyi

Advanced nuclear reactors as well as the life extension of light water reactors require advanced alloys capable of satisfactory operation up to neutron damage levels approaching 200 displacements per atom (dpa). Extensive studies, including fundamental theories, have demonstrated the superior resistance to radiation-induced swelling in ferritic steels, primarily inherited from their body-centered cubic (bcc) structure. This study aims at developing nanoprecipitates strengthened advanced ferritic alloys for advanced nuclear reactor applications. To be more specific, this study aims at enhancing the amorphization ability of some precipitates, such as Laves phase and other types of intermetallic phases, through smart alloying strategy, andmore » thereby promote the crystalline®amorphous transformation of these precipitates under irradiation.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rejent, J.A.; Vianco, P.T.; Woodrum, R.A.

Aging analyses were performed on solder joints from two radar units: (1) a laboratory, N57 tube-type radar unit and (2) a field-returned, B61-0, tube-type radar unit. The cumulative temperature environments experienced by the units during aging were calculated from the intermetallic compound layer thickness and the mean Pb-rich phase particle size metrics for solder joints in the units, assuming an aging time of 35 years for both radars. Baseline aging metrics were obtained from a laboratory test vehicle assembled at AS/FM and T; the aging kinetics of both metrics were calculated from isothermal aging experiments. The N57 radar unit interconnectmore » board solder joints exhibited very little aging. The eyelet solder joints did show cracking that most likely occurred at the time of assembly. The eyelet, SA1126 connector solder joints, showed some delamination between the Cu pad and underlying laminate. The B61 field-returned radar solder joints showed a nominal degree of aging. Cracking of the eyelet solder joints was observed. The Pb-rich phase particle measurements indicated additional aging of the interconnects as a result of residual stresses. Cracking of the terminal pole connector, pin-to-pin solder joint was observed; but it was not believed to jeopardize the electrical functionality of the interconnect. Extending the stockpile lifetime of the B61 tube-type radar by an additional 20 years would not be impacted by the reliability of the solder joints with respect to further growth of the intermetallic compound layer. Additional coarsening of the Pb-rich phase will increase the joints' sensitivity to thermomechanical fatigue.« less

Decomposition of ferrite in commercial superduplex stainless steel weld metals; microstructural transformations above 700 °C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gregori, A.; Nilsson, J.-O.

2002-04-01

The microstructural stability at temperatures above 700 °C of weld metal of type 29Cr-8Ni-2Mo-0.39N and weld metal of type 25Cr-10Ni-4Mo-0.28N has been compared. Multipass welding was employed using the gas tungsten arc welding technique with a shielding gas of Ar+2 pct N2. The quantitative assessment of the intermetallic phase was performed using automatic image analysis in the light optical microscope (LOM). Detailed microanalysis was also performed using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. A computer program developed by the authors was used to calculate a continuous cooling-temperature (CCT) diagram on the basis of the experimentally determined time-temperature-transformation (TTT) diagram. Thermodynamic calculations for estimating phase stabilities and for interpreting experimental observations were performed. It was found that weld metal of type 29Cr-8Ni-2Mo-0.39N was microstructurally more stable than weld metal of type 25Cr-10Ni-4Mo-0.28N. A lower molybdenum concentration and a higher nitrogen concentration in the former alloy could explain the higher stability with respect to the intermetallic phase. The higher nitrogen concentration also provides a rationale for the higher stability against the formation of secondary austenite in weld metal of type 29Cr-8Ni-2Mo-0.39N. This effect, which is associated with a lower thermodynamic driving force for precipitation of secondary austenite during multipass welding, can be explained by nitrogen-enhanced primary austenite formation.

Formation of soft magnetic high entropy amorphous alloys composites containing in situ solid solution phase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Ran; Sun, Huan; Chen, Chen; Tao, Juan; Li, Fushan

2018-03-01

Fe-Co-Ni-Si-B high entropy amorphous alloys composites (HEAACs), which containing high entropy solid solution phase in amorphous matrix, show good soft magnetic properties and bending ductility even in optimal annealed state, were successfully developed by melt spinning method. The crystallization phase of the HEAACs is solid solution phase with body centered cubic (BCC) structure instead of brittle intermetallic phase. In addition, the BCC phase can transformed into face centered cubic (FCC) phase with temperature rise. Accordingly, Fe-Co-Ni-Si-B high entropy alloys (HEAs) with FCC structure and a small amount of BCC phase was prepared by copper mold casting method. The HEAs exhibit high yield strength (about 1200 MPa) and good plastic strain (about 18%). Meanwhile, soft magnetic characteristics of the HEAs are largely reserved from HEAACs. This work provides a new strategy to overcome the annealing induced brittleness of amorphous alloys and design new advanced materials with excellent comprehensive properties.

The Role of Second Phase Intermetallic Particles on the Spall Failure of 5083 Aluminum

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-12-01

of mechanically processed 5083 aluminum (i.e., cold and hot rolled, extruded , etc.) has been previously studied by several researchers [1–4]. Results...Velocity Interferometry System for Any Reflector (VISAR) [6]. In addition, four end-state (ex situ spall recovery) experiments were conducted to augment all... extruded AMX602 Mg alloy (unpublished) J. dynamic behavior mater. (2016) 2:476–483 483 123 9 1 DEFENSE TECHNICAL (PDF) INFORMATION CTR DTIC OCA

Understanding fracture toughness in gamma TiAl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chan, Kwai S.

1992-05-01

The ambient-temperature ductility and fracture toughness of TiAl-base intermetallic alloys have been improved in recent years by both alloy additions and microstructural control. Two-phase TiAl alloys have emerged as a new class of lightweight, high-temperature materials with potential importance for aerospace applications. This overview summarizes recent advances in the basic understanding of the fracture processes and toughening mechanisms in TiAl-base alloys and the relationships between microstructures and mechanical properties.

Characterization of novel microstructures in Al-Fe-V-Si and Al-Fe-V-Si-Y alloys processed at intermediate cooling rates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marshall, Ryan

Samples of an Al-Fe-V-Si alloy with and without small Y additions were prepared by copper wedge-mold casting. Analysis of the microstructures developed at intermediate cooling rates revealed the formation of an atypical morphology of the cubic alpha-Al12(Fe/V)3Si phase (Im 3 space group with a = 1.26 nm) in the form of a microeutectic with alpha-Al that forms in relatively thick sections. This structure was determined to exhibit promising hardness and thermal stability when compared to the commercial rapidly solidified and processed Al-Fe-V-Si (RS8009) alloy. In addition, convergent beam electron diffraction (CBED) and selected area electron diffraction (SAD) were used to characterize a competing intermetallic phase, namely, a hexagonal phase identified as h-AlFeSi (P6/mmm space group with a = 2.45 nm c = 1.25 nm) with evidence of a structural relationship to the icosahedral quasicrystalline (QC) phase (it is a QC approximant) and a further relationship to the more desirable alpha-Al12(Fe/V) 3Si phase, which is also a QC approximant. The analysis confirmed the findings of earlier studies in this system, which suggested the same structural relationships using different methods. As will be shown, both phases form across a range of cooling rates and appear to have good thermal stabilities. Additions of Y to the alloy were also studied and found to cause the formation of primary YV2Al20 particles on the order of 1 microm in diameter distributed throughout the microstructure, which otherwise appeared essentially identical to that of the Y-free 8009 alloy. The implications of these results on the possible development of these structures will be discussed in some detail.

Magnetic field controlled single crystal growth and surface modification of titanium alloys exposed for biocompatibility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hermann, Regina; Uhlemann, Margitta; Wendrock, Horst; Gerbeth, Gunter; Büchner, Bernd

2011-03-01

The aim of this work is growth and characterisation of Ti55Nb45 (wt%) single crystals by floating-zone single crystal growth of intermetallic compounds using two-phase radio-frequency (RF) electromagnetic heating. Thereby, the process and, in particular, the flow field in the molten zone is influenced by additional magnetic fields. The growth of massive intermetallic single crystals is very often unsuccessful due to an unfavourable solid-liquid interface geometry enclosing concave fringes. It is generally known that the crystallization process stability is enhanced if the crystallization interface is convex. For this, a tailored magnetic two-phase stirrer system has been developed, which enables a controlled influence on the melt ranging from intensive inwards to outwards flows. Since Ti is favourably light, strong and biocompatible, it is one of the few materials that naturally match the requirements for implantation in the human body. Therefore, the magnetic system was applied to crystal growth of Ti alloys. The grown crystals were oriented and cut to cubes with the desired crystallographic orientations [1 0 0] and [1 0 1] normally on a plane. The electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique was applied to clearly determine crystal orientation and to localize grain boundaries. The formation of oxidic nanotubes on Ti surfaces in dependence of the grain orientation was investigated, performed electrochemically by anodic oxidation from fluoride containing electrolyte.

Study of formation mechanism of incipient melting in thixo-cast Al–Si–Cu–Mg alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Du, Kang, E-mail: du126kang@126.com; Zhu, Qiang, E-mail: zhu.qiang@grinm.com; Li, Daquan, E-mail: lidaquan@grinm.com

Mechanical properties of thixo-cast Al–Si–Cu–Mg alloys can be enhanced by T61 heat treatment. Copper and magnesium atoms in aluminum matrix can form homogeneously distributed precipitations after solution and aging treatment which harden the alloys. However, microsegregation of these alloying elements could form numerous tiny multi-compound phases during solidification. These phases could cause incipient melting defects in subsequent heat treatment process and degrade the macro-mechanical properties of productions. This study is to present heterogeneous distribution of Cu, Si, and Mg elements and formation of incipient melting defects (pores). In this study, incipient melting pores that occurred during solution treatment at variousmore » temperatures, even lower than common melting points of various intermetallic phases, were identified, in terms of a method of investigating the same surface area in the samples before and after solution treatment in a vacuum environment. The results also show that the incipient melting mostly originates at the clusters with fine intermetallic particles while also some at the edge of block-like Al{sub 2}Cu. The fine particles were determined being Al{sub 2}Cu, Al{sub 5}Cu{sub 2}Mg{sub 8}Si{sub 6} and Al{sub 8}Mg{sub 3}FeSi{sub 2}. Tendency of the incipient melting decreases with decreases of the width of the clusters. The formation mechanism of incipient melting pores in solution treatment process was discussed using both the Fick law and the LSW theory. Finally, a criterion of solution treatment to avoid incipient melting pores for the thixo-cast alloys is proposed. - Highlights: • In-situ comparison technique was used to analysis the change of eutectic phases. • The ralationship between eutectic phase size and incipient melting was studied. • Teat treatment criterion for higher incipient melting resistance was proposed.« less

First principles calculations of the electronic structure and magnetic properties of Y(Fe,M)9.2 and Y(Fe,M)9.2C (M= Si, Ga, Zr)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Guang; Zha, Liang; Yang, Wenyun; Qiao, Guanyi; Wang, Changsheng; Yang, Yingchang; Yang, Jinbo

2018-06-01

The preferential site substitution of the Fe by Si, Ga and Zr in the Y(Fe,M)9.2 and Y(Fe,M)9.2C compounds, and the doping effects on the magnetic properties have been studied by the first-principles calculations. It is found that the doping of the Si or Zr can improve the thermodynamic stability of the 1:9 phase, while the substitution of the Fe by Ga makes it unstable. Si atom tends to enter the 3g crystal site and Zr prefers to occupy the 2e site when Y(Fe,M)9.2 and their carbides are synthesized. Although the substitution of the Fe by Si and Zr will reduce the total magnetic moments of the YFe9.2 and their carbides, the volumetric and the d-band narrowing effects caused by the doping can still modify the electron density distributions of the Fe near the Fermi level, improving the magnetic ordering temperature of the non-carbonated compound YFe9.2. The calculated magnetic ordering temperatures of Y(Fe,M)9.2C decrease with the increasing content of the doping elements M due to the stronger hybridization of the d bands in the carbides. For the rare-earth(RE) iron based intermetallics REFe9.2 with the TbCu7-type structure, it is suggested that Zr is able to stabilize the phase and enhance the magnetic ordering temperature, indicating the possible further application in the field of permanent magnets, which has not been reported before.

Method of manufacturing superconductor wire

DOEpatents

Motowidlo, Leszek

2014-09-16

A method for forming Nb.sub.3Sn superconducting wire is provided. The method employs a powder-in-tube process using a high-tin intermetallic compound, such as MnSn.sub.2, for producing the Nb.sub.3Sn. The use of a high-tin intermetallic compound enables the process to perform hot extrusion without melting the high-tin intermetallic compound. Alternatively, the method may entail drawing the wire without hot extrusion.

Quaternary borocarbides: New class of intermetallic superconductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nagarajan, R.; Gupta, L. C.; Dhar, S. K.; Mazumdar, Chandan; Hossain, Zakir; Godart, C.; Levy-Clement, C.; Padalia, B. D.; Vijayaraghavan, R.

1995-01-01

Our recent discovery of superconductivity (SC) in the four-element multiphase Y-Ni-B-C system at an elevated temperature (TC approximately 12 K) has opened up great possibilities of identifying new superconducting materials and generating new physics. Superconductivity with Tc (greater than 20 K) higher than that known so far in bulk intermetallics has been observed in multiphase Y-Pd-B-C and Th-Pd-B-C systems and a family of single phase materials RENi2B2C (RE= Y, rare earth) have been found. Our investigations show YNi2B2C to be a strong coupling hard type-II SC. HC2(T) exhibits an unconventional temperature dependence. Specific heat and magnetization studies reveal coexistence of SC and magnetism in RNi2B2C (R = Ho, Er, Tm) with magnetic ordering temperatures (Tc approximately 8 K, 10.5 K, 11 K and Tm approximately 5 K, approximately 7K, approximately 4 K respectively) that are remarkably higher than those in known magnetic superconductors . Mu-SR studies suggest the possibility of Ni atoms carrying a moment in TmNi2B2C. Resistivity results suggests a double re-entrant transition (SC-normal-SC) in HoNi2B2C. RENi2B2C (RE = Ce, Nd, Gd) do not show SC down to 4.2 K. The Nd- and Gd-compounds order magnetically at approximately 4.5 K and approximately 19.5 K, respectively. Two SC transitions are observed in Y-Pd-B-C (Tc approximately 22 K, approximately 10 K) and in Th-Pd-B-C (Tc approximately 20 K, approximately 14 K) systems, which indicate that there are at least two structures which support SC in these borocarbides. In our multiphase ThNi2B2C we observe SC at approximately 6 K. No SC was seen in multiphase UNi2B2C, UPd2B2C, UOs2Ge2C and UPd5B3C(0.35) down to 4.2 K. Tc in YNi2B2C is depressed by substitutions (Gd, Th and U at Y-sites and Fe, Co at Ni-sites).

Development of a Knowledge Base of Ti-Alloys From First-Principles and Thermodynamic Modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marker, Cassie

An aging population with an active lifestyle requires the development of better load-bearing implants, which have high levels of biocompatibility and a low elastic modulus. Titanium alloys, in the body centered cubic phase, are great implant candidates, due to their mechanical properties and biocompatibility. The present work aims at investigating the thermodynamic and elastic properties of bcc Tialloys, using the integrated first-principles based on Density Functional Theory (DFT) and the CALculation of PHAse Diagrams (CALPHAD) method. The use of integrated first-principles calculations based on DFT and CALPHAD modeling has greatly reduced the need for trial and error metallurgy, which is ineffective and costly. The phase stability of Ti-alloys has been shown to greatly affect their elastic properties. Traditionally, CALPHAD modeling has been used to predict the equilibrium phase formation, but in the case of Ti-alloys, predicting the formation of two metastable phases o and alpha" is of great importance as these phases also drastically effect the elastic properties. To build a knowledge base of Ti-alloys, for biomedical load-bearing implants, the Ti-Mo-Nb-Sn-Ta-Zr system was studied because of the biocompatibility and the bcc stabilizing effects of some of the elements. With the focus on bcc Ti-rich alloys, a database of thermodynamic descriptions of each phase for the pure elements, binary and Ti-rich ternary alloys was developed in the present work. Previous thermodynamic descriptions for the pure elements were adopted from the widely used SGTE database for global compatibility. The previous binary and ternary models from the literature were evaluated for accuracy and new thermodynamic descriptions were developed when necessary. The models were evaluated using available experimental data, as well as the enthalpy of formation of the bcc phase obtained from first-principles calculations based on DFT. The thermodynamic descriptions were combined into a database ensuring that the sublattice models are compatible with each other. For subsystems, such as the Sn-Ta system, where no thermodynamic description had been evaluated and minimal experimental data was available, first-principles calculations based on DFT were used. The Sn-Ta system has two intermetallic phases, TaSn2 and Ta3Sn, with three solution phases: bcc, body centered tetragonal (bct) and diamond. First-principles calculations were completed on the intermetallic and solution phases. Special quasirandom structures (SQS) were used to obtain information about the solution phases across the entire composition range. The Debye-Gruneisen approach, as well as the quasiharmonic phonon method, were used to obtain the finite-temperature data. Results from the first-principles calculations and experiments were used to complete the thermodynamic description. The resulting phase diagram reproduced the first-principles calculations and experimental data accurately. In order to determine the effect of alloying on the elastic properties, first-principles calculations based on DFT were systematically done on the pure elements, five Ti-X binary systems and Ti-X-Y ternary systems (X ≠ Y = Mo, Nb, Sn, Ta Zr) in the bcc phase. The first-principles calculations predicted the single crystal elastic stiffness constants cij 's. Correspondingly, the polycrystalline aggregate properties were also estimated from the cij's, including bulk modulus B, shear modulus G and Young's modulus E. The calculated results showed good agreement with experimental results. The CALPHAD method was then adapted to assist in the database development of the elastic properties as a function of composition. On average, the database predicted the elastic properties of higher order Ti-alloys within 5 GPa of the experimental results. Finally, the formation of the metastable phases, o and alpha" was studied in the Ti-Ta and Ti-Nb systems. The formation energy of these phases, calculated from first-principles at 0 K, showed that the phases have similar formation energies to the bcc and hcp phases. Inelastic neutron scattering was completed on four different Ti-Nb compositions to study the entropy of the phases as well as the transformations occurring when the phases form and the phase fractions. Ongoing work is being done to use the experimental information to introduce thermodynamic descriptions for these two phases in the Ti-Nb system in order to be able to predict the formation and phase fractions. DFT based first-principles were used to predict the effect these phases have on the elastic properties and a rule of mixtures was used to determine the elastic properties of multi-phase alloys. The results were compared with experiments and showed that if the ongoing modeling can predict the phase fraction, the elastic database can accurately predict the elastic properties of the o and alpha" phases. This thesis provides a knowledge base of the thermodynamic and elastic properties of Ti-alloys from computational thermodynamics. The databases created will impact research activities on Ti-alloys and specifically efforts focused on Ti-alloys for biomedical applications.

Development of a new generation of high-temperature composite materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brindley, P. K.

1990-01-01

Intermetallic matrix composites proposed to meet advanced aeropropulsion requirements are discussed. The powder metallurgy fabrication process currently being used to produce these intermetallic matrix composites will be presented, as will properties of one such composite, SiC/Ti3Al+Nb. In addition, the direction of future research will be outlined, including plans for enhanced fabrication of intermetallic composites by the arc-spray technique and fiber development by the floating-zone process.

Electrostatic Discharge Sensitivity and Electrical Conductivity of Composite Energetic Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-02-01

intermetallic) [13,14], a metal oxide ( thermite ) [13e15], or a fluoropolymer [16,17]. They can be used as additives in explosives to decrease...research on ESD ignition sensitivity of thermites and intermetallics. Because thermites are composed of particulate media and widely used, they pose a... thermites and intermetallics for pyrotechnic applications, in: 32nd AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference, 1996. [15] K.W. Watson, M.L

Intermetallic negative electrodes for non-aqueous lithium cells and batteries

DOEpatents

Thackeray, Michael M.; Vaughey, John T.; Johnson, Christopher S.; Fransson, Linda M.; Edstrom, Ester Kristina; Henriksen, Gary

2004-05-04

A method of operating an electrochemical cell is disclosed. The cell has an intermetallic negative electrode of Cu.sub.6-x M.sub.x Sn.sub.5, wherein x is .ltoreq.3 and M is one or more metals including Si and a positive electrode containing Li in which Li is shuttled between the positive electrode and the negative electrode during charge and discharge to form a lithiated intermetallic negative electrode during charge. The voltage of the electrochemical cell is controlled during the charge portion of the charge-discharge cycles so that the potential of the lithiated intermetallic negative electrode in the fully charged electrochemical cell is less than 0.2 V but greater than 0 V versus metallic lithium.

Pathways for tailoring the magnetostructural behavior of FeRh-based systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barua, Radhika

2014-03-01

The prediction of phase transition temperatures in functional materials provides dual benefits of supplying insight into fundamental drivers underlying the phase transition, as well as enabling new and improved technological applications that employ the material. In this work, studies focused on understanding the magnetostructural phase transition of FeRh as a function of elemental substitution, provides guidance for tailoring phase transitions in this compound, with possible extensions to other intermetallic-based magnetostructural compounds. Clear trends in the magnetostructural temperatures (Tt) of alloys of composition Fe(Rh1-xMx) or (Fe1-xMx) Rh (M = 3 d, 4 d or 5 d transition metals), as reported in literature since 1961, were identified and confirmed as a function of the valence band electron concentration ((s + d) electrons/atom) of the system. It is observed that substitution of 3 dor 4 delements (x <= 6.5 at%) into B2-ordered FeRh compounds causes Ttto increase to a maximum around a critical valence band electron concentration (ev *) of 8.50 electrons/atom and then decrease. Substitution of 5 delements echoes this trend but with an overall increase in Ttand a shift in ev * to 8.52 electrons/atom. For ev>8.65 electrons/atom, FeRh-based alloys cease to adopt the B2-ordered crystallographic structure in favor of the chemically disordered A1-type structure or the ordered L10-type structure. This phenomenological model has been confirmed through synthesis and characterization of FeRh alloys with Cu, Ni and Au additions. The success of this model in confirming existing data trends in chemically-substituted FeRh and predicting new composition-transition temperature correlations emphasizes the strong interplay between the electronic spin configuration, the electronic band structure, and crystal lattice of this system. Further these results provide pathways for tailoring the magnetostructural behavior and the associated functional response of FeRh-based systems for potential technological applications. Research was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy (Contract No. DE-SC0005250).

Effect of Bonding Time on Interfacial Reaction and Mechanical Properties of Diffusion-Bonded Joint Between Ti-6Al-4V and 304 Stainless Steel Using Nickel as an Intermediate Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thirunavukarasu, Gopinath; Kundu, Sukumar; Mishra, Brajendra; Chatterjee, Subrata

2014-04-01

In the current study, solid-state diffusion bonding between Ti-6Al-4V (TiA) and 304 stainless steel (SS) using pure nickel (Ni) of 200- μm thickness as an intermediate material was carried out in vacuum. Uniaxial compressive pressure and temperature were kept at 4 MPa and 1023 K (750 °C), respectively, and the bonding time was varied from 30 to 120 minutes in steps of 15 minutes. Scanning electron microscopy images, in backscattered electron mode, revealed the layerwise Ti-Ni-based intermetallics like either Ni3Ti or both Ni3Ti and NiTi at titanium alloy-nickel (TiA/Ni) interface, whereas nickel-stainless steel (Ni/SS) interface was free from intermetallic phases for all the joints. Chemical composition of the reaction layers was determined by energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and confirmed by X-ray diffraction study. Maximum tensile strength of ~382 MPa along with ~3.7 pct ductility was observed for the joints processed for 60 minutes. It was found that the extent of diffusion zone at Ni/SS interface was greater than that of TiA/Ni interface. From the microhardness profile, fractured surfaces, and fracture path, it was demonstrated that the failure of the joints was initiated and propagated apparently at TiA/Ni interface near Ni3Ti intermetallic for bonding time less than 90 minutes, and through Ni for bonding time 90 minutes and greater.

Magnetically Controlled Shape Memory Behaviour—Materials and Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gandy, A. P.; Sheikh, A.; Neumann, K.; Neumann, K.-U.; Pooley, D.; Ziebeck, K. R. A.

2008-06-01

For most metals a microscopic change in shape occurs above the elastic limit by the irreversible creation and movement of dislocations. However a large number of metallic systems undergo structural, martensitic, phase transformations which are diffusionless, displacive first order transitions from a high-temperature phase to one of lower symmetry below a certain temperature TM. These transitions which have been studied for more than a century are of vital importance because of their key role in producing shape memory phenomena enabling the system to reverse large deformations in the martensitic phase by heating into the austenite phase. In addition to a change in shape (displacement) the effect can also produce a force or a combination of both. Materials having this unique property are increasing being used in medical applications—scoliosis correction, arterial clips, stents, orthodontic wire, orthopaedic implants etc. The structural phase transition essential for shape memory behaviour is usually activated by a change in temperature or applied stress. However for many applications such as for actuators the transformation is not sufficiently rapid. Poor energy conversion also limits the applicability of many shape memory alloys. In medicine a change of temperature or pressure is often inappropriate and new ferromagnetic materials are being considered in which the phenomena can be controlled by an applied magnetic field at constant temperature. In order to achieve this, it is important to optimise three fundamental parameters. These are the saturation magnetisation σs, the Curie temperature Tc and the martensitic temperature TM. Here, σs is important because the magnetic pressure driving the twin boundary motion is 2σsH. Furthermore the material must be in the martensitic state at the operating temperature which should be at or above room temperature. This may be achieved by alloying or controlling the stoichiometry. Recently new intermetallic compounds based on the ferromagnetic prototype Ni2MnGa have been discovered which offer the possibility of controlling the structural phase transition by a magnetic field, hence opening up new possible applications particularly in the field of medicine. The properties of these new materials will be presented and their suitability for applications discussed.

New Intermetallic Ternary Phosphide Chalcogenide AP2-xXx (A = Zr, Hf; X = S, Se) Superconductors with PbFCl-Type Crystal Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kitô, Hijiri; Yanagi, Yousuke; Ishida, Shigeyuki; Oka, Kunihiko; Gotoh, Yoshito; Fujihisa, Hiroshi; Yoshida, Yoshiyuki; Iyo, Akira; Eisaki, Hiroshi

2014-07-01

We have synthesized a series of intermetallic ternary phosphide chalcogenide superconductors, AP2-xXx (A = Zr, Hf; X = S, Se), using the high-pressure synthesis technique. These materials have a PbFCl-type crystal structure (space group P4/nmm) when x is greater than 0.3. The superconducting transition temperature Tc changes systematically with x, yielding dome-like phase diagrams. The maximum Tc is achieved at approximately x = 0.7, at which point the Tc is 6.3 K for ZrP2-xSex (x = 0.75), 5.5 K for HfP2-xSex (x = 0.7), 5.0 K for ZrP2-xSx (x = 0.675), and 4.6 K for Hfp2-xSx (x = 0.5). They are typical type-II superconductors and the upper and lower critical fields are estimated to be 2.92 T at 0 K and 0.021 T at 2 K for ZrP2-xSex (x = 0.75), respectively.

High spatial resolution PEELS characterization of FeAl nanograins prepared by mechanical alloying

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Valdre, G.; Botton, G.A.; Brown, L.M.

The authors investigate the nanograin ``chemical`` structure in a nanostructured material of possible industrial application (Fe-Al system) prepared by conventional mechanical alloying via ball milling in argon atmosphere. They restrict themselves to the structural and nanochemical behavior of ball-milled nanocrystalline Fe-Al powders with atomic composition Fe{sub 3}Al, corresponding to a well-known intermetallic compound of the Fe-Al system. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) equipped with a parallel detection electron energy loss spectrometer (PEELS) has provided an insight on the ``chemical`` structure of both nanograins and their surface at a spatial resolution of better than 1 nm. The energy loss near edgemore » structure of the Al L loss reveals that the Al coordination is similar to a B2 compound and the oxidation of the powder during processing may play a significant role in the stabilization of the intermetallic phases. Conventional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used for the structural characterization of the material after the ball milling; powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) aided the investigation.« less

Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy of High Temperature Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

Software and hardware updates to further extend the capability of the electron microscope were carried out. A range of materials such as intermetallics, metal-matrix composites, ceramic-matrix composites, ceramics and intermetallic compounds, based on refractory elements were examined under this research. Crystal structure, size, shape and volume fraction distribution of various phases which constitute the microstructures were examined. Deformed materials were studied to understand the effect of interfacial microstructure on the deformation and fracture behavior of these materials. Specimens tested for a range of mechanical property requirements, such as stress rupture, creep, low cycle fatigue, high cycle fatigue, thermomechanical fatigue, etc. were examined. Microstructural and microchemical stability of these materials exposed to simulated operating environments were investigated. The EOIM Shuttle post-flight samples were also examined to understand the influence of low gravity processing on microstructure. In addition, fractographic analyses of Nb-Zr-W, titanium aluminide, molybdenum silicide and silicon carbide samples were carried out. Extensive characterization of sapphire fibers in the fiber-reinforced composites made by powder cloth processing was made. Finally, pressure infiltration casting of metal-matrix composites was carried out.

First-principles study of Al2Sm intermetallic compound on structural, mechanical properties and electronic structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Jingwu; Wang, Lei; Hu, Zhi; Li, Xiao; Yan, Hong

2017-02-01

The structural, thermodynamic, mechanical and electronic properties of cubic Al2Sm intermetallic compound are investigated by the first-principles method on the basis of density functional theory. In light of the strong on-site Coulomb repulsion between the highly localized 4f electrons of Sm atoms, the local spin density approximation approach paired with additional Hubbard terms is employed to achieve appropriate results. Moreover, to examine the reliability of this study, the experimental value of lattice parameter is procured from the analysis of the TEM image and diffraction pattern of Al2Sm phase in the AZ31 alloy to verify the authenticity of the results originated from the computational method. The value of cohesive energy reveals Al2Sm to be a stable in absolute zero Kelvin. According to the stability criteria, the subject of this work is mechanically stable. Afterward, elastic moduli are deduced by performing Voigt-Reuss-Hill approximation. Furthermore, elastic anisotropy and anisotropy of sound velocity are discussed. Finally, the calculation of electronic density of states is implemented to explore the underlying mechanism of structural stability.

Structural building principles of complex face-centered cubic intermetallics.

PubMed

Dshemuchadse, Julia; Jung, Daniel Y; Steurer, Walter

2011-08-01

Fundamental structural building principles are discussed for all 56 known intermetallic phases with approximately 400 or more atoms per unit cell and space-group symmetry F43m, Fd3m, Fd3, Fm3m or Fm3c. Despite fundamental differences in chemical composition, bonding and electronic band structure, their complex crystal structures show striking similarities indicating common building principles. We demonstrate that the structure-determining elements are flat and puckered atomic {110} layers stacked with periodicities 2p. The atoms on this set of layers, which intersect each other, form pentagon face-sharing endohedral fullerene-like clusters arranged in a face-centered cubic packing (f.c.c.). Due to their topological layer structure, all these crystal structures can be described as (p × p × p) = p(3)-fold superstructures of a common basic structure of the double-diamond type. The parameter p, with p = 3, 4, 7 or 11, is determined by the number of layers per repeat unit and the type of cluster packing, which in turn are controlled by chemical composition.

Prediction of precipitate evolution and martensite transformation in Ti-Ni-Cu shape memory alloys by computational thermodynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Povoden-Karadeniz, A.; Cirstea, D. C.; Kozeschnik, E.

2016-04-01

Ti-50Ni to Ti-55Ni (at.%) can be termed as the pioneer of shape memory alloys (SMA). Intermetallic precipitates play an important role for strengthening. Their influence on the start temperature of the martensitic transformation is a crucial property for the shape memory effect. Efforts for increasing the martensite start temperature include replacement of a part of Ni atoms by Cu. The influence of Cu-addition to Ti-Ni SMA on T0- temperatures and the character of the austenite-martensite transformation is evaluated using a new thermodynamic database for the Ti-Ni-system extended by Cu. Trends of precipitation of intermetallic phases are simulated by combining the assessed thermodynamics of the Ti-Ni-Cu system with assessed diffusion mobility data and kinetic models, as implemented in the solid-state transformation software MatCalc and are presented in the form of time-temperature-precipitation diagrams. Thermodynamic equilibrium considerations, complemented by predictive thermo-kinetic precipitation simulation, facilitates SMA alloy design and definition of optimized aging conditions.

Studies of Al-Ti Alloys by SEM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yildiz, K.; Atici, Y.; Keşlİ Oǧlu, K.; Yaşar, E.

2007-04-01

Al-Ti (1, 2 wt. %) alloys were investigated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). SEM observations and energy-dispersive x-ray analyses (EDX) showed that the phase structure of Al-Ti (1 %) alloy at 165 μm/s is composed of Al matrix and C, Ni, Fe and Si particles and the Al-Ti (1 %) alloys at 16 and 8 μm/s have only the Al matrix and C particles. It was also found that the Al-Ti (2 %) form the Al matrix and intermetallic TiAl.

Chemical state of fission products in irradiated uranium carbide fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arai, Yasuo; Iwai, Takashi; Ohmichi, Toshihiko

1987-12-01

The chemical state of fission products in irradiated uranium carbide fuel has been estimated by equilibrium calculation using the SOLGASMIX-PV program. Solid state fission products are distributed to the fuel matrix, ternary compounds, carbides of fission products and intermetallic compounds among the condensed phases appearing in the irradiated uranium carbide fuel. The chemical forms are influenced by burnup as well as stoichiometry of the fuel. The results of the present study almost agree with the experimental ones reported for burnup simulated carbides.

United States Air Force Summer Research Program 1991. Summer Faculty Research Program (SFRP) Reports. Volume 5B. Wright Laboratory

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-01-09

interfaces of intermetallic-matrix composites (for example, with Ti-Il wt.% Al-14 wt.% Nb and other titanium aluminides combined with various fibers... titanium aluminide intermetallics should be processed, tested and characterized by TEM. These intermetallic-matrix composites (IMC) are important for...these titanium aluminides have a greater CTE mismatch and have been modelled to undergo significant plastic deformation as a result of thermal processing

AA6082 to DX56-Steel Laser Brazing: Process Parameter-Intermetallic Formation Correlation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Narsimhachary, D.; Pal, S.; Shariff, S. M.; Padmanabham, G.; Basu, A.

2017-09-01

In the present study, laser-brazed AA6082 to DX56-galvanized steel joints were investigated to understand the influence of process parameters on joint strength in terms of intermetallic layer formation. 1.5-mm-thick sheet of aluminum alloy (AA6082-T6) and galvanized steel (DX56) sheet of 0.7 mm thickness were laser-brazed with 1.5-mm-diameter Al-12% Si solid filler wire. During laser brazing, laser power (4.6 kW) and wire feed rate (3.4 m/min) were kept constant with a varying laser scan speed of 3.5, 3, 2.5, 2, 1.5, and 1 m/min. Microstructure of brazed joint reveals epitaxial growth at the aluminum side and intermetallic layer formation at steel interface. Intermetallic layer formation was confirmed by EDS analysis and XRD study. Hardness profile showed hardness drop in filler region, and failure during tensile testing was initiated through the filler region near the steel interface. As per both experimental study and numerical analysis, it was observed that intermetallic layer thickness decreases with increasing brazing speed. Zn vaporization from galvanized steel interface also affected the joint strength. It was found that high laser scan speed or faster cooling rate can be chosen for suppressing intermetallic layer formation or at least decreasing the layer thickness which results in improved mechanical properties.

Development of in-Situ Al-Si/CuAl₂ Metal Matrix Composites: Microstructure, Hardness, and Wear Behavior.

PubMed

Tash, Mahmoud M; Mahmoud, Essam R I

2016-06-02

In the present work, in-situ metal matrix composites were fabricated through squeeze casting. The copper particles were dispersed with different weight percentages (3%, 6%, 10%, and 15%) into Al-12% Si piston alloy. Also, heat treatments were performed at 380 °C and 450 °C for holding times of 6 and 18 h. The microstructures, X-ray diffractometer (XRD) pattern, hardness, and wear characteristics were evaluated. The results showed that these copper particles have reacted with the aluminum under all of the aforementioned processing conditions resulting in the formation of fine copper aluminide intermetallics. Most of the intermetallics were CuAl₂, while AlCu appeared in a small ratio. Additionally, these intermetallics were homogenously distributed within the alloy matrix with up to 6% Cu addition. The amounts of those intermetallics increased after performing heat treatment. Most of these intermetallics were CuAl₂ at 380 °C, while the Cu-rich intermetallics appeared at 450 °C. Increasing the holding time to 18 h, however, led to grain coarsening and resulted in the formation of some cracks. The hardness of the resulting composite materials was improved. The hardness value reached to about 170 HV after heat treating at 380 °C for 8 h. The wear resistance of the resulting composite materials was remarkably improved, especially at lower additions of Cu and at the lower heat treatment temperature.

Intermetallic Al-, Fe-, Co- and Ni-Based Thermal Barrier Coatings Prepared by Cold Spray for Applications on Low Heat Rejection Diesel Engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leshchinsky, E.; Sobiesiak, A.; Maev, R.

2018-02-01

Conventional thermal barrier coating (TBC) systems consist of a duplex structure with a metallic bond coat and a ceramic heat insulating topcoat. They possess the desired low thermal conductivity, but at the same time they are very brittle and sensitive to thermal shock and thermal cycling due to the inherently low coefficient of thermal expansion. Recent research activities are focused on the developing of multilayer TBC structures obtained using cold spraying and following annealing. Aluminum intermetallics have demonstrated thermal and mechanical properties that allow them to be used as the alternative TBC materials, while the intermetallic layers can be additionally optimized to achieve superior thermal physical properties. One example is the six layer TBC structure in which cold sprayed Al-based intermetallics are synthesized by annealing in nitrogen atmosphere. These multilayer coating systems demonstrated an improved thermal fatigue capability as compared to conventional ceramic TBC. The microstructures and properties of the coatings were characterized by SEM, EDS and mechanical tests to define the TBC material properties and intermetallic formation mechanisms.

Exhibition of veiled features in diffusion bonding of titanium alloy and stainless steel via copper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thirunavukarasu, Gopinath; Kundu, Sukumar; Laha, Tapas; Roy, Deb; Chatterjee, Subrata

2017-11-01

An investigation was carried out to know the extent of influence of bonding-time on the interface structure and mechanical properties of diffusion bonding (DB) of TiA|Cu|SS. DB of Ti6Al4V (TiA) and 304 stainless steel (SS) using pure copper (Cu) of 200-μm thickness were processed in vacuum using 4-MPa bonding-pressure at 1123 K from 15 to 120 min in steps of 15 min. Preparation of DB was not possible when bonding-time was less than 60 min as the bonding at Cu|SS interface was unsuccessful in spite of effective bonding at TiA|Cu interface; however, successful DB were produced when the bonding-time was 60 min and beyond. DB processed for 60 and 75 min (classified as shorter bonding-time interval) showed distinctive characteristics (structural, mechanical, and fractural) as compared to the DB processed for 90, 105, and 120 min (classified as longer bonding-time interval). DB processed for 60 and 75 min exhibited layer-wise Cu-Ti-based intermetallics at TiA|Cu interface, whereas Cu|SS interface was completely free from reaction products. The layer-wise structure of Cu-Ti-based intermetallics were not observed at TiA|Cu interface in the DB processed for longer bonding-time; however, the Cu|SS interface had layer-wise ternary intermetallic compounds (T1, T2, and T3) of Cu-Fe-Ti-based along with σ phase depending upon the bonding-time chosen. Diffusivity of Ti-atoms in Cu-layer (DTi in Cu-layer) was much greater than the diffusivity of Fe-atoms in Cu-layer (DFe in Cu-layer). Ti-atoms reached Cu|SS interface but Fe-atoms were unable to reach TiA|Cu interface. It was observed that DB fractured at Cu|SS interface when processed for shorter bonding-time interval, whereas the DB processed for longer bonding-time interval fractured apparently at the middle of Cu-foil region predominantly due to the existence of brittle Cu-Fe-Ti-based intermetallics.

High strength cast aluminum alloy development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Druschitz, Edward A.

The goal of this research was to understand how chemistry and processing affect the resulting microstructure and mechanical properties of high strength cast aluminum alloys. Two alloy systems were investigated including the Al-Cu-Ag and the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu systems. Processing variables included solidification under pressure (SUP) and heat treatment. This research determined the range in properties that can be achieved in BAC 100(TM) (Al-Cu micro-alloyed with Ag, Mn, Zr, and V) and generated sufficient property data for design purposes. Tensile, stress corrosion cracking, and fatigue testing were performed. CuAl2 and Al-Cu-Fe-Mn intermetallics were identified as the ductility limiting flaws. A solution treatment of 75 hours or longer was needed to dissolve most of the intermetallic CuAl 2. The Al-Cu-Fe-Mn intermetallic was unaffected by heat treatment. These results indicate that faster cooling rates, a reduction in copper concentration and a reduction in iron concentration might increase the ductility of the alloy by decreasing the size and amount of the intermetallics that form during solidification. Six experimental Al-Zn-Mg-Cu series alloys were produced. Zinc concentrations of 8 and 12wt% and Zn/Mg ratios of 1.5 to 5.5 were tested. Copper was held constant at 0.9%. Heat treating of the alloys was optimized for maximum hardness. Al-Zn-Mg-Cu samples were solution treated at 441°C (826°F) for 4 hours before ramping to 460°C (860°F) for 75 hours and then aged at 120°C (248°F) for 75 hours. X-ray diffraction showed that the age hardening precipitates in most of these alloys was the T phase (Mg32Zn 31.9Al17.1). Tensile testing of the alloys showed that the best mechanical properties were obtained in the lowest alloy condition. Chilled Al-8.2Zn-1.4Mg-0.9Cu solidified under pressure resulted in an alloy with a yield strength of 468MPa (68ksi), tensile strength of 525MPa (76ksi) and an elongation of 9%.

Ca Addition Effects on the Microstructure, Tensile and Corrosion Properties of Mg Matrix Alloy Containing 8 wt.% Mg2Si

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lotfpour, M.; Emamy, M.; Dehghanian, C.; Pourbahari, B.

2018-02-01

The microstructure, tensile properties and corrosion behavior of the Mg-8 wt.% Mg2Si-x%Ca alloy have been studied by the use of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, standard tensile testing, polarization test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. Microstructural studies indicated that Ca modifies both primary and eutectic Mg2Si phase. It was found that the average size of primary Mg2Si particles is about 60 μm, which is dropped by about 82% in the alloy containing 0.05 wt.% Ca. By the addition of different Ca contents, Ca-rich intermetallics (i.e., CaSi2 and CaMgSi) were formed. The modification mechanism of adding Ca during solidification was found to be due to the strong effect of CaMgSi phase as a heterogonous nucleation site, apart from CaSi2 which was reported before, for Mg2Si intermetallics. Tensile testing results ascertained that Ca addition enhances both ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation values. The optimum amount of Ca was found to be 0.1 wt.%, which improved UTS and elongation values from about 130 MPa and 2% to 165 MPa and 5.5%, whereas more Ca addition (i.e., 3 wt.%) reduced the tensile properties of the alloy to about 105 MPa and 1.8%, which can be due to the formation of CaMgSi intermetallics with deteriorating needle-like morphology. Polarization and EIS tests also showed that the Mg-3%Si-0.5%Ca alloy pronounces as the best anti-corrosion alloy. Nevertheless, further added Ca (up to 3 wt.%) deteriorated the corrosion resistance due to predominance of worse galvanic coupling effect stemmed from the presence of stronger CaMgSi cathode in comparison with Mg2Si. With higher Ca additions, an adverse effect was seen on corrosion resistance of the Mg-3%Si alloy, as a result of forming a weak film on the alloy specimen surface.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhou, Sixuan; Latturner, Susan E., E-mail: latturner@chem.fsu.edu

The intermetallic compounds RE{sub 6}Co{sub 5}Ge{sub 1+x}Al{sub 3−x} (RE=Pr{sub ,} Nd) were synthesized from the reaction of germanium and aluminum in RE/Co eutectic flux. These phases crystallize with the Nd{sub 6}Co{sub 5}Ge{sub 2.2} structure type in hexagonal space group P-6m2 (a=9.203(2)Å, c=4.202(1) Å, R{sub 1}=0.0109 for Pr{sub 6}Co{sub 5}Ge{sub 1.80}Al{sub 2.20}; and a=9.170(3) Å, c=4.195(1) Å, R{sub 1}=0.0129 for Nd{sub 6}Co{sub 5}Ge{sub 1.74}Al{sub 2.26}). The structure features chains of face-sharing Ge@RE{sub 9} clusters intersecting hexagonal cobalt nets linked by aluminum atoms. Magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate that both phases exhibit ferromagnetic ordering of the cobalt layers with T{sub C} in themore » range of 130–140 K. The magnetic moments of the rare earth ions order at lower temperature (30–40 K). Magnetic measurements on oriented crystals of Nd{sub 6}Co{sub 5}Ge{sub 1.74}Al{sub 2.26} show a strong preference of the moments to order along the c-axis. - Graphical abstract: RE{sub 6}Co{sub 5}Ge{sub 1+x}Al{sub 3−x} (RE=Pr{sub ,} Nd) were grown as large crystals from reactions of Ge and Al in RE/Co eutectic melts. Magnetic measurements indicate ordering of the 2-D cobalt nets at 130–140 K, and ordering of the rare earth moments at 30–40 K. Display Omitted - Highlights: • RE{sub 6}Co{sub 5}Ge{sub 1+x}Al{sub 3−x} (RE=Pr{sub ,} Nd) grown as large crystals from RE/Co eutectic flux. • RE{sub 6}Co{sub 5}Ge{sub 1+x}Al{sub 3−x} structure features hexagonal cobalt nets stacked along c-axis. • Cobalt layers order ferromagnetically with T{sub c}=130–140 K. • Rare earth magnetic moments order at low temperature (30–40 K).« less

Structural, Electronic and Elastic Properties of Heavy Fermion YbTM2 (TM= Ir and Pt) Laves Phase Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pawar, H.; Shugani, M.; Aynyas, M.; Sanyal, S. P.

2018-02-01

The structural, electronic and elastic properties of YbTM2 (TM = Ir and Pt) Laves phase intermetallic compounds which crystallize in cubic (MgCu2-type) structure, have been investigated using ab-initio full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method with LDA and LDA+U approximation. The calculated ground state properties such as lattice parameter (a0), bulk modulus (B) and its pressure derivative (B‧) are in good agreement with available experimental and theoretical data. The electronic properties are analyzed from band structures and density of states. Elastic constants are predicted first time for these compounds which obey the stability criteria for cubic system.

Characterization of low temperature Cu/In bonding for fine-pitch interconnects in three-dimensional integration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panchenko, Iuliana; Bickel, Steffen; Meyer, Jörg; Mueller, Maik; Wolf, Jürgen M.

2018-02-01

This study presents the results for Cu/In bonding based on the solid-liquid interdiffusion (SLID) principle for fine-pitch interconnects in three-dimensional integration. The microbumps were fabricated on Si wafers (55 µm pitch, 25 µm top bump diameter, 35 µm bottom bump diameter). In was electroplated directly on Cu only on the top die microbumps. Two different In thicknesses were manufactured (3 and 5 µm). The interconnects were successfully fabricated at a bonding temperature of 170 °C. High temperature storage was carried out at 150 and 200 °C for different times between 2 and 72 h directly after the interconnect formation in order to investigate the temperature stability. The microstructure was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The intermetallic compound (IMC) found in the microbumps after electroplating was CuIn2. The intermetallic interlayer consists of Cu11In9 and a thin layer of Cu2In after bonding and isothermal storage.

Laser Cladding of TiAl Intermetallic Alloy on Ti6Al4V -Process Optimization and Properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cárcel, B.; Serrano, A.; Zambrano, J.; Amigó, V.; Cárcel, A. C.

In order to improve Ti6Al4V high-temperature resistance and its tribological properties, the deposition of TiAl intermetallic (Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb) coating on a Ti6Al4V substrate by coaxial laser cladding has been investigated. Laser cladding by powder injection is an emerging laser material processing technique that allows the deposition of thick protective coatings on substrates,using a high power laser beam as heat source. Laser cladding is a multiple-parameter-dependent process. The main process parameters involved (laser power, powder feeding rate, scanning speed and preheating temperature) has been optimized. The microstructure and geometrical quantities (clad area and dilution) of the coating was characterized by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In addition the cooling rate of the clad during the process was measured by a dual-color pyrometer. This result has been related to defectology and mechanical coating properties.

On the Formation of Sludge Intermetallic Particles in Secondary Aluminum Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferraro, Stefano; Bjurenstedt, Anton; Seifeddine, Salem

2015-08-01

The primary precipitation of Fe-rich intermetallics in AlSi9Cu3(Fe) type alloys is studied for different Fe, Mn, and Cr contents and cooling rates. Differential scanning calorimetry, thermal analysis, and interrupted solidification with a rapid quenching technique were used in combination in order to assess the nucleation temperature of sludge particles, as well as to follow their evolution. The results revealed that the sludge nucleation temperature and the release of latent heat during sludge formation are functions of Fe, Mn, and Cr levels in the molten alloy ( i.e., the sludge factor, SF) and cooling rate. Moreover, it can be concluded that sensitivity to sludge formation is not affected by cooling rate; i.e., a decrease in the SF will reduce sludge nucleation temperature to the same extent for a higher cooling rate as for a lower cooling rate. The sludge formation temperature detected will assist foundries in setting the optimal molten metal temperature for preventing sludge formation in holding furnaces and plunger systems.

Intermetallic alloy welding wires and method for fabricating the same

DOEpatents

Santella, M.L.; Sikka, V.K.

1996-06-11

Welding wires for welding together intermetallic alloys of nickel aluminides, nickel-iron aluminides, iron aluminides, or titanium aluminides, and preferably including additional alloying constituents are fabricated as two-component, clad structures in which one component contains the primary alloying constituent(s) except for aluminum and the other component contains the aluminum constituent. This two-component approach for fabricating the welding wire overcomes the difficulties associated with mechanically forming welding wires from intermetallic alloys which possess high strength and limited ductilities at elevated temperatures normally employed in conventional metal working processes. The composition of the clad welding wires is readily tailored so that the welding wire composition when melted will form an alloy defined by the weld deposit which substantially corresponds to the composition of the intermetallic alloy being joined. 4 figs.

Intermetallic alloy welding wires and method for fabricating the same

DOEpatents

Santella, Michael L.; Sikka, Vinod K.

1996-01-01

Welding wires for welding together intermetallic alloys of nickel aluminides, nickel-iron aluminides, iron aluminides, or titanium aluminides, and preferably including additional alloying constituents are fabricated as two-component, clad structures in which one component contains the primary alloying constituent(s) except for aluminum and the other component contains the aluminum constituent. This two-component approach for fabricating the welding wire overcomes the difficulties associated with mechanically forming welding wires from intermetallic alloys which possess high strength and limited ductilities at elevated temperatures normally employed in conventional metal working processes. The composition of the clad welding wires is readily tailored so that the welding wire composition when melted will form an alloy defined by the weld deposit which substantially corresponds to the composition of the intermetallic alloy being joined.

Accelerated exploration of multi-principal element alloys with solid solution phases

PubMed Central

Senkov, O.N.; Miller, J.D.; Miracle, D.B.; Woodward, C.

2015-01-01

Recent multi-principal element, high entropy alloy (HEA) development strategies vastly expand the number of candidate alloy systems, but also pose a new challenge—how to rapidly screen thousands of candidate alloy systems for targeted properties. Here we develop a new approach to rapidly assess structural metals by combining calculated phase diagrams with simple rules based on the phases present, their transformation temperatures and useful microstructures. We evaluate over 130,000 alloy systems, identifying promising compositions for more time-intensive experimental studies. We find the surprising result that solid solution alloys become less likely as the number of alloy elements increases. This contradicts the major premise of HEAs—that increased configurational entropy increases the stability of disordered solid solution phases. As the number of elements increases, the configurational entropy rises slowly while the probability of at least one pair of elements favouring formation of intermetallic compounds increases more rapidly, explaining this apparent contradiction. PMID:25739749

Undercooled and rapidly quenched Ni-Mo alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tewari, S. N.; Glasgow, T. K.

1986-01-01

Hypoeutectic, eutectic, and hypereutectic nickel-molybdenum alloys were rapidly solidified by both bulk undercooling and melt spinning techniques. Alloys were undercooled in both electromagnetic levitation and differential thermal analysis equipment. The rate of recalescence depended upon the degree of initial undercooling and the nature (faceted or nonfaceted) of the primary nucleating phase. Alloy melts were observed to undercool more in the presence of primary Beta (NiMo intermetallic) phase than in gamma (fcc solid solution) phase. Melt spinning resulted in an extension of molybdenum solid solubility in gamma nickel, from 28 to 37.5 at % Mo. Although the microstructures observed by undercooling and melt spinning were similar the microsegregation pattern across the gamma dendries was different. The range of microstructures evolved was analyzed in terms of the nature of the primary phase to nucleate, its subsequent dendritic growth, coarsening and fragmentation, and final solidification of interfenderitic liquid.

Thermal stability of intermetallic phases in Fe-rich Fe-Cr-Ni-Mo alloys

DOE PAGES

Yang, Ying; Tan, Lizhen; Busby, Jeremy T.

2015-06-12

Understanding the stability of precipitate phases in the Fe-rich Fe-Cr-Ni-Mo alloys is critical to the alloy design and application of Mo-containing Austenitic steels. Coupled with thermodynamic modeling, stability of the chi and Laves phases in two Fe-Cr-Ni-Mo alloys were investigated at 1000, 850 and 700 °C for different annealing time. The morphologies, compositions and crystal structures of the matrix and precipitate phases were carefully examined by Scanning Electron Microscopy, Electron Probe Microanalysis, X-ray diffraction and Transmission Electron Microscopy. The two key findings resulted from this work. One is that the chi phase is stable at high temperature and transformed intomore » the Laves phase at low temperature. The other is that both the chi and Laves phases have large solubilites of Cr, Mo and Ni, among which the Mo solubility has a major role on the relative stability of the precipitate phases. The developed thermodynamic models were then applied to evaluating the Mo effect on the stability of precipitate phases in AISI 316 and NF709 alloys.« less

The microstructure of the surface layer of magnesium laser alloyed with aluminum and silicon

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dziadoń, Andrzej

2016-08-15

The surface layer under analysis was formed as a result of diffusion bonding of a thin AlSi20 plate to a magnesium substrate followed by laser melting. Depending on the process parameters, the laser beam melted the AlSi20 plate only or the AlSi20 plate and a layer of the magnesium surface adjacent to it. Two types of microstructure of the remelted layer were thus analyzed. If the melting zone was limited to the AlSi20 plate, the microstructure of the surface layer was typical of a rapidly solidified hypereutectic Al–Si alloy. Since, however, the liquid AlSi20 reacted with the magnesium substrate, themore » following intermetallic phases formed: Al{sub 3}Mg{sub 2}, Mg{sub 17}Al{sub 12} and Mg{sub 2}Si. The microstructure of the modified surface layer of magnesium was examined using optical, scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy. The analysis of the surface properties of the laser modified magnesium revealed that the thin layer has a microstructure of a rapidly solidified Al–Si alloy offering good protection against corrosion. By contrast, the surface layer containing particles of intermetallic phases was more resistant to abrasion but had lower corrosion resistance than the silumin type layer. - Highlights: •A CO{sub 2} laser was used for surface alloying of Mg with AlSi20. •Before alloying, an AlSi20 plate was diffusion bonded with the Mg substrate. •The process parameters affected the alloyed layer microstructure and properties. •With melting limited to AlSi20, the layer had a structure of rapidly solidified AlSi20. •Mg–Al and Mg–Si phases were present when both the substrate and the plate were melted.« less

Control of Reaction Kinetics During Friction Stir Processing

DOE PAGES

Das, Shamiparna; Martinez, Nelson Y.; Mishra, Rajiv S.; ...

2017-02-17

Friction stir processing (FSP) was used to successfully embed galfenol particles into aluminum (AA 1100 Al) matrix uniformly. But, intermetallic layer of Al 3Fe was formed around the galfenol particles. We estimated the activation energy for Al 3Fe formation during FSP, and attempts were made to minimize the Al 3Fe layer thickness. By changing the processing conditions, FSP successfully eliminated the intermetallic layer. Therefore, FSP, in addition to microstructural control, can successfully fabricate intermetallic-free embedded regions by controlling the reaction kinetics.

Advanced gas atomization production of oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) Ni-base superalloys through process and solidification control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meyer, John Louis Lamb

A novel gas atomization reaction synthesis (GARS) method was utilized to produce precursor Ni-Cr-Y-Ti powder with a surface oxide and an internal rare earth (RE)-containing intermetallic. Although Al is necessary for industrial superalloy production, the Ni-Cr base alloy system was selected as a simplified system more amenable to characterization. This was done in an effort to better study the effects of processing parameters. Consolidation and heat-treatment were performed to promote the exchange of oxygen from the surface oxide to the RE intermetallic to form nanometric oxide dispersoids. Alloy selection was aided by an internal oxidation and serial grinding experiment that found that Hf-containing alloys may form more stable dispersoids than Ti-containing alloys, but the Hf-containing system exhibited five different oxide phases and two different intermetallics compared to the two oxide phases and one intermetallic in the Ti-containing alloys. Since the simpler Ti-containing system was easier to characterize, and make observations on the effects of processing parameters, the Ti-containing system was used for experimental atomization trials. An internal oxidation model was used to predict the heat treatment times necessary for dispersoid formation as a function of powder size and temperature. A new high-pressure gas atomization (HPGA) nozzle was developed with the aim of promoting fine powder production at scales similar to that of the high gas-flow and melt-flow of industrial atomizers. The atomization nozzle was characterized using schlieren imaging and aspiration pressure testing to determine the optimum melt delivery tip geometry and atomization pressure to promote enhanced secondary atomization mechanisms. Six atomization trials were performed to investigate the effects of gas atomization pressure and reactive-gas concentration on the particle size distribution (PSD). Also, the effect on the rapidly solidified microstructure (as a function of powder size) was investigated as a function of reactive-gas composition and bulk alloy composition. The results indicate that the pulsation mechanism and optimum PSDs reported in the literature were not observed. Also, it was determined that reactive gas may marginally improve the PSD, but further experiments are required. The oxygen content in the gas was also not found to be detrimental to the microstructure (i.e., did not catalyze nucleation), but may have removed potent catalytic nucleation sites, although not enough to significantly alter the microstructure. Overall, the downstream injection of oxygen was not found to significantly affect either the PSD or undercooling (as inferred from microstructure and XRD observations), but injection further upstream, including in the gas atomization nozzle, remains to be investigated.

Transient liquid phase bonding of titanium-, iron- and nickel-based alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahman, A. H. M. Esfakur

The operating temperature of land-based gas turbines and jet engines are ever-increasing to increase the efficiency, decrease the emissions and minimize the cost. Within the engines, complex-shaped parts experience extreme temperature, fatigue and corrosion conditions. Ti-based, Ni-based and Fe-based alloys are commonly used in gas turbines and jet engines depending on the temperatures of different sections. Although those alloys have superior mechanical, high temperature and corrosion properties, severe operating conditions cause fast degradation and failure of the components. Repair of these components could reduce lifecycle costs. Unfortunately, conventional fusion welding is not very attractive, because Ti reacts very easily with oxygen and nitrogen at high temperatures, Ni-based superalloys show heat affected zone (HAZ) cracking, and stainless steels show intergranular corrosion and knife-line attack. On the other hand, transient liquid phase (TLP) bonding method has been considered as preferred joining method for those types of alloys. During the initial phase of the current work commercially pure Ti, Fe and Ni were diffusion bonded using commercially available interlayer materials. Commercially pure Ti (Ti-grade 2) has been diffusion bonded using silver and copper interlayers and without any interlayer. With a silver (Ag) interlayer, different intermetallics (AgTi, AgTi2) appeared in the joint centerline microstructure. While with a Cu interlayer eutectic mixtures and Ti-Cu solid solutions appeared in the joint centerline. The maximum tensile strengths achieved were 160 MPa, 502 MPa, and 382 MPa when Ag, Cu and no interlayers were used, respectively. Commercially pure Fe (cp-Fe) was diffusion bonded using Cu (25 m) and Au-12Ge eutectic interlayer (100 microm). Cu diffused predominantly along austenite grain boundaries in all bonding conditions. Residual interlayers appeared at lower bonding temperature and time, however, voids were observed in the joint centerline at higher joining temperature and time. Dispersed Au-rich particles were observed in the base metal near interface. The highest ultimate tensile strengths obtained for the bonded Fe were 291+/-2 MPa using a Cu interlayer at 1030°C for 10 h and 315+/-4 MPa using a Au-12Ge interlayer at 950°C for 15 h. Commercially pure Ni (cp-Ni) was diffusion bonded using a Al, Au-12Ge or Cu interlayer. The formation of intermetallics could not be avoided when Al interlayer was used. Even though no intermetallics were obtained with Au-12Ge or Cu interlayer, appreciable strength of the joint was not found. Next, the simple bonding systems were modeled numerically. It is hoped that the simple models can be extended for higher order alloys. The modeling of TLP joint means to come up with a mathematical model which can predict the concentration profiles of diffusing species. The concentration dependence of diffusivity in a multi-component diffusion system makes it complicated to predict the concentration profiles of diffusing species. The so-called chemical diffusivity can be expressed as a function of thermodynamic and kinetic data. DICTRA software can calculate the concentration profiles using appropriate mobility and thermodynamic data. It can also optimize the diffusivity data using experimental diffusivity data. Then the optimized diffusivity data is stored as mobility data which is a linear function of temperature. In this work, diffusion bonding of commercially pure Ni using Cu interlayers is reported. The mobility parameters of Ni-Cu alloy binary systems were optimized using DICTRA/Thermocalc software from the available self-, tracer and chemical diffusion coefficients. The optimized mobility parameters were used to simulate concentration profiles of Ni-Cu diffusion joints using DICTRA/Thermocalc software. The calculated and experimental concentration profiles agreed well at 1100 °C. This method could not be extended for higher order alloys because of the lack of appropriate thermodynamic and kinetic database. In the third phase industrially important alloys such as SS 321, Inconel 718 and Ti-6Al-4V were diffusion bonded. Diffusion bonded SS 321 with Au-12Ge interlayer provided the best microstructure when bonded in either vacuum or argon at 1050°C for 20 h and cooled in air. The maximum strength obtained of the joint was 387+/-4 MPa bonded in vacuum at 1050°C for 20 h and cooled in air. The microstructure of joint centerline of diffusion bonded Inconel 718 using Au-12Ge interlayer at 1050°C for 15 h and cooled in air consisted of residual interlayer (1.3-2.5 microm). The residual interlayer was disappeared by increasing the bonding time by 5 h, however, pores appeared in the joint centerline. As a result, the strength obtained for bonded Inconel 718 was much lower than that of the base alloy. The joint centerline microstructure of bonded Ti-6Al-4V using Cu interlayer was free of intermetallics and solid solution of Cu and base alloy. The strength of the joint is yet to be determined.