Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Alloys alloys	-	-	2022	22.5 Days	CHF 1000	Submit
Coatings coatings	2.9	5.0	2011	14.5 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Crystals crystals	2.4	4.2	2011	11.1 Days	CHF 2100	Submit
Materials materials	3.1	5.8	2008	13.9 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Metals metals	2.6	4.9	2011	17.8 Days	CHF 2600	Submit

31 pages, 9481 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrochemical and Tribological Behavior of Dual-Phase Steels Obtained from a Commercial-Grade API 5CT Steel

by C. Guerra-Linares, M. J. Soria-Aguilar, J. García-Guerra, A. Martínez-Luevanos, F. R. Carrillo-Pedroza, E. Gutíerrez-Castañeda, J. C. Díaz-Guillén, J. L. Acevedo Dávila and J. M. González de la Cruz

Metals 2025, 15(3), 319; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15030319 - 14 Mar 2025

Viewed by 386

Abstract

In this study, the effect of martensite volume fraction on the mechanical, tribological, and corrosion properties of API 5CT dual-phase steel is studied based on intercritical heat treatment routes at different temperatures (730, 760, and 790 °C). Hardness of the specimens increased by [...] Read more.

In this study, the effect of martensite volume fraction on the mechanical, tribological, and corrosion properties of API 5CT dual-phase steel is studied based on intercritical heat treatment routes at different temperatures (730, 760, and 790 °C). Hardness of the specimens increased by increasing the martensite volume fraction up to 50%. Further increase in martensite volume fraction led to an increase in wear resistance. Sliding wear pin-on-disk tests were analyzed following the ASTM G99 standard, obtaining the wear rate, the volume of lost mass, and the Archard coefficient as a function of time and temperature of the heat treatment. A comparison was made between the wear rate and the hardness data, and its proportionality was established. The corrosion behavior of DP steels in 3.5% NaCl solution was studied by the potentiodynamic polarization technique. The result showed that with increasing the martensite amount in the specimen and decreasing the ferrite amount, the corrosion rate decreased. Finally, the corrosion mechanism in DP steel depends on the self-corrosion resistance behavior of both phases (martensite-ferrite) as well as the presence of galvanic corrosion between them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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15 pages, 6494 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Corrosion Behavior in Al-5.6Zn-2.5Mg-1.6Cu-0.2Cr Alloy with Minor Yttrium Addition

by Ting Yao, Daihong Xiao, Yingjie Yan and Wensheng Liu

Materials 2025, 18(4), 875; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18040875 - 17 Feb 2025

Viewed by 447

Abstract

This study systematically investigated the effects of the addition of the rare earth element yttrium (Y) on the microstructural evolution, mechanical properties, and corrosion behavior of as-extruded Al-5.6Zn-2.5Mg-1.6Cu-0.20Cr (wt.%) alloy through comprehensive characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), tensile testing, corrosion analysis, and [...] Read more.

This study systematically investigated the effects of the addition of the rare earth element yttrium (Y) on the microstructural evolution, mechanical properties, and corrosion behavior of as-extruded Al-5.6Zn-2.5Mg-1.6Cu-0.20Cr (wt.%) alloy through comprehensive characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), tensile testing, corrosion analysis, and electron microscopy. Microstructural characterization demonstrated that the incorporation of yttrium resulted in significant refinement of secondary phase particles within the as-extruded alloy matrix. Moreover, quantitative analysis revealed a substantial increase in low-angle grain boundary (LAGB) density, dislocation density, and the formation of subgrain structures. Notably, the volume fraction of η′ strengthening precipitates showed a marked increase, accompanied by a corresponding reduction in the width of precipitate-free zones (PFZs) along grain boundaries. Following the T74 aging treatment, the alloy with 0.1 wt.% yttrium addition exhibited a remarkable improvement in intergranular corrosion resistance, with the maximum corrosion depth reduced to 107.8 μm. However, it should be noted that the exfoliation corrosion resistance exhibited an inverse correlation with increasing yttrium content, suggesting a concentration-dependent behavior in corrosion performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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23 pages, 6599 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancement of Corrosion Resistance of MAO/Polydopamine/Polylactic Acid-Coated AZ31 Magnesium Alloy for Biomedical Applications

by Annalisa Acquesta, Fulvia Desiderio, Pietro Russo, Giulia Stornelli, Andrea Di Schino and Tullio Monetta

Metals 2025, 15(2), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15020146 - 31 Jan 2025

Viewed by 839

Abstract

This paper aimed to investigate the enhancement of the corrosion resistance of a protective system applied on the AZ31 magnesium alloy to be used as an orthopedic biomedical device, composed of three different superimposed layers: (a) magnesium-based oxide, (b) polydopamine, and (c) polylactic [...] Read more.

This paper aimed to investigate the enhancement of the corrosion resistance of a protective system applied on the AZ31 magnesium alloy to be used as an orthopedic biomedical device, composed of three different superimposed layers: (a) magnesium-based oxide, (b) polydopamine, and (c) polylactic acid. Specifically, morphological and chemical analyses, crystallographic, roughness, and micro-hardness were carried out. The electrochemical measurements were performed in Hanks’ Balanced Salt solution at 37 °C. The micro arc oxidation (MAO) treatment involved the classic pancake structure of the oxide with a consequent high extension of the real area.The sealing ofits pores via the polydopamine was well highlighted through the surface roughness analysis. As expected, the magnesium oxide layer reduced the degradation rate.The presence of polydopamine on the oxide layer improved the corrosion resistance of the alloy, showing a pseudo-passivity range in the potentiodynamic polarization curve, due to the filling of oxide pores.The highest impedance modulus in the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis during the temporal observation of 168 h was observed when all coatings were applied on magnesium substrate, due to a synergetic action. Thus, the multilayers should represent a protective system to control the degradation process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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13 pages, 6245 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study of the Creep-Fatigue Damage Mechanism of a P92 Welded Joint Using Nanoindentation Characterization

by Zhangmin Jin, Zhihui Cai, Xuecheng Gu, Zhiqiang Wang, Yiwen Han, Ting Yu, Yuxuan Song, Zengliang Gao and Zhongrui Zheng

Metals 2025, 15(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15010053 - 9 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 676

Abstract

In fossil fuel and nuclear power plants, welded joints continuously experience creep-fatigue loading, which can result in premature cracking during the in-service term. To study the creep-fatigue interactive (CFI) behavior, the CFI test of P92 steel was performed with different strain rates at [...] Read more.

In fossil fuel and nuclear power plants, welded joints continuously experience creep-fatigue loading, which can result in premature cracking during the in-service term. To study the creep-fatigue interactive (CFI) behavior, the CFI test of P92 steel was performed with different strain rates at 823 K. Results indicate that the short cycle life is measured with the increasing strain rate. Relying on the scanning electron microscope, the fracture mechanism of P92 steel gradually changes from fatigue-dominating to creep-fatigue interactive damage with the increasing strain rate. The hardness (H), elastic modulus (E) and creep deformation were then measured by nanoindentation, and the strain rate sensitivity (m) was estimated. The relation between the degenerated mechanical properties and microstructural evaluations, i.e., enhanced grain size and nucleation of creep voids, was established, and the damage mechanism was discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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12 pages, 5804 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Facile Preparation of Composite Coatings with Incorporated 13X Zeolite and CeO₂

by Kristina Mojsilović, Nenad Tadić, Srna Stojanović, Ljiljana Damjanović-Vasilić and Rastko Vasilić

Coatings 2024, 14(12), 1516; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14121516 - 30 Nov 2024

Viewed by 952

Abstract

One-step methods for the formation of efficient thin-film catalysts for wastewater treatment under the sunlight spectrum is a topic of interest for many research groups. This article reports on the facile preparation of photocatalytic coatings by plasma electrolytic oxidation processing from 0.01 M [...] Read more.

One-step methods for the formation of efficient thin-film catalysts for wastewater treatment under the sunlight spectrum is a topic of interest for many research groups. This article reports on the facile preparation of photocatalytic coatings by plasma electrolytic oxidation processing from 0.01 M sodium tungstate electrolyte solution containing both 13X zeolite and CeO₂. Obtained coatings are characterized with respect to their surface morphology, chemical and phase composition, and possible application as photocatalysts in photodegradation of organic pollutants. All prepared coatings contain elements originating from both substrate and electrolyte solution. Addition of 1 g/L of 13X zeolite and CeO₂ in various concentrations to electrolyte solution results in increased photodecomposition of model organic pollutant. The highest photodegradation under simulated sunlight is observed for coatings formed in 0.01 M sodium tungstate with addition of 1 g/L of 13X zeolite and 1 g/L of CeO₂, reaching 50% after 6 h of irradiation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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13 pages, 4076 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Hydrophobic Fumed Silica on Bending Strength of Sodium Silicate-Bonded Sand Cores

by Yunbo Li, Huarui Zhang, Jiulong Chen, Ting Xiang, Ying Cheng and Hu Zhang

Materials 2024, 17(23), 5714; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17235714 - 22 Nov 2024

Viewed by 700

Abstract

Inorganic sand cores involving sodium silicate binder and microsilica have environmental advantages during the casting process of aluminum alloy. Nevertheless, the bending strength of sodium silicate-bonded sand (SSBS) needs to be further improved. In this research, the effect of hydrophobic fumed silica on [...] Read more.

Inorganic sand cores involving sodium silicate binder and microsilica have environmental advantages during the casting process of aluminum alloy. Nevertheless, the bending strength of sodium silicate-bonded sand (SSBS) needs to be further improved. In this research, the effect of hydrophobic fumed silica on the bending strength of sand cores was studied. The experimental results revealed that hydrophobic fumed silica with the addition of 0.050 wt.% can be adopted as an optimal modifier to enhance the bending strength of SSBS. According to scanning electron microscope and spectroscopy techniques, dense bonding bridges and a complex Si–O–Si network containing specific silicon molecules with a silicon atom bonded to three other silicon atoms contribute to the excellent bending strength, with a 53.1% increase in cold strength (24 h) compared to a commercial sample of a modified sand core. Meanwhile, the newly formed Si–O–Al chemical bond plays a crucial role in increasing the bending strength of sand cores. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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12 pages, 10251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surface Modification and Tribological Performance of Calcium Phosphate Coatings with TiO₂ Nanoparticles on VT1-0 Titanium by Micro-Arc Oxidation

by Bauyrzhan Rakhadilov, Ainur Zhassulan, Kuanysh Ormanbekov, Aibek Shynarbek, Daryn Baizhan and Tamara Aldabergenova

Crystals 2024, 14(11), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14110945 - 30 Oct 2024

Viewed by 923

Abstract

The continuous development of biomedical materials necessitates exploring new solutions to enhance implant performance. This study investigates the impact of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on calcium phosphate coatings applied to VT1-0 titanium substrates using micro-arc oxidation. Titanium, widely recognized for its excellent mechanical properties [...] Read more.

The continuous development of biomedical materials necessitates exploring new solutions to enhance implant performance. This study investigates the impact of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on calcium phosphate coatings applied to VT1-0 titanium substrates using micro-arc oxidation. Titanium, widely recognized for its excellent mechanical properties and compatibility, serves as an ideal substrate for implants. The coatings were synthesized in an electrolyte with varying titanium dioxide concentrations to examine their influence on surface morphology, wettability, roughness, hardness, and tribological characteristics. Characterization techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and profilometry, were employed to analyze the coatings’ structural and mechanical properties. The results demonstrate that increasing titanium dioxide concentrations leads to enhanced uniformity, reduced pore sizes, and higher hardness. Furthermore, the coatings showed improved wear resistance and reductions in friction coefficients at optimal nanoparticle levels. The inclusion of titanium dioxide significantly enhances the mechanical and tribological performance of the calcium phosphate coatings, making them suitable for biomedical applications, especially in implants requiring long-term durability and enhanced compatibility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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10 pages, 2866 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Heterometallic Silver/Cadmium Thiocyanate Directed by Benzyl Viologen Possessing Photocurrent Response and Photocatalytic Degradation on Rhodamine B in Artificial Seawater

by Xueqiang Zhuang, Xihe Huang, Haohong Li, Tianjin Lin and Yali Gao

Crystals 2024, 14(11), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14110944 - 30 Oct 2024

Viewed by 789

Abstract

The search for new heterometallic metal pseudohalides will be significant for the development of novel functional materials. In this work, a new silver/cadmium heterometallic thiocyanate templated by benzyl viologen has been synthesized and structurally determined, i.e., {(BV)[Ag₂Cd(SCN)₆]}_n (BV [...] Read more.

The search for new heterometallic metal pseudohalides will be significant for the development of novel functional materials. In this work, a new silver/cadmium heterometallic thiocyanate templated by benzyl viologen has been synthesized and structurally determined, i.e., {(BV)[Ag₂Cd(SCN)₆]}_n (BV²⁺ = benzyl viologen). The interesting 1-D double chain [Ag₂Cd(SCN)₆]_n²ⁿ⁻ was constructed from the CdN₆ octahedron and Ag₂SCN₆ dimers via μ₂-SCN and μ₃-S,S N SCN bridge, in which the Ag···Ag interaction can be found. Inter-molecular C-H···S/N hydrogen bonds between BV²⁺ cations and [Ag₂Cd(SCN)₆]_n²ⁿ⁻ chains contribute to the formation of a stable 3-D network. The short S···N distance implies the strong charge transfer (CT) interactions between the electron-rich silver/cadmium thiocyanate donor and BV²⁺ acceptor. This hybrid can exhibit a photo-generated current performance with an intensity of 1.75 × 10⁻⁸ A. Interestingly, this hybrid can present good photocatalytic degradation performance on rhodamine B in artificial seawater with a degradation ratio of 86.5% in 240 min. This work provides a new catalyst way for the organic dye-type ocean pollutant treatments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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13 pages, 7830 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrolytic Plasma Nitriding of Medium-Carbon Steel 45 for Performance Enhancement

by Zarina Satbayeva, Almasbek Maulit, Nurlybek Ispulov, Daryn Baizhan, Bauyrzhan Rakhadilov and Rinat Kusainov

Crystals 2024, 14(10), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14100895 - 15 Oct 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1121

Abstract

This article analyzes the effect of electrolytic plasma nitriding on the performance of medium-carbon steel 45 under increased mechanical loads and in aggressive environments. Nitrided samples in carbamide electrolytes, both with and without the addition of ammonium nitrate, were compared to the initial [...] Read more.

This article analyzes the effect of electrolytic plasma nitriding on the performance of medium-carbon steel 45 under increased mechanical loads and in aggressive environments. Nitrided samples in carbamide electrolytes, both with and without the addition of ammonium nitrate, were compared to the initial material. SEM with EDX and XRD analysis was used to examine the microstructure and phase composition of nitrided samples. Wear resistance was studied using the ‘ball-on-disk’ method and Vickers microhardness testing, while corrosion resistance was studied using potentiodynamic polarization curves. The study results show that the sample without ammonium nitrate demonstrated better mechanical and corrosion properties due to a more homogeneous and denser nitride layer, approximately 10 µm thick, containing phases FeN and Fe₄N. Its wear resistance doubled compared to that of the initial sample. The sample treated in an electrolyte with the addition of ammonium nitrate demonstrated a higher current density (2.8672 × 10⁻⁵ A/cm²) and a lower corrosion potential (−0.565 V) compared to the initial sample (i_corr = 1.8971 × 10⁻⁵ A/cm², E_corr = −0.480 V) and the sample without ammonium nitrate (i_corr = 1.7315 × 10⁻⁵ A/cm², E_corr = −0.376 V). This is due to the formation of an uneven nitride layer and the presence of microcracks on the surface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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23 pages, 20688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Super-Fast Heating Rate and Holding Time on the Microstructure and Properties of DP Fe-0.16C-1.4Mn Sheet Steel

by Jiazheng Zhao, Jian Wang, Jun Li, Shengen Zhang and Fenghua Luo

Materials 2024, 17(20), 4982; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17204982 - 11 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1094

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of super-fast heating rate and holding time on the microstructure and mechanical properties of dual-phase (DP) Fe-0.16C-1.4Mn sheet steel. Super-fast heating and cooling rates were achieved via induction heating and gas quenching. The results were also compared with [...] Read more.

This study investigates the influence of super-fast heating rate and holding time on the microstructure and mechanical properties of dual-phase (DP) Fe-0.16C-1.4Mn sheet steel. Super-fast heating and cooling rates were achieved via induction heating and gas quenching. The results were also compared with those for a conventional low-speed heat treatment. The microstructures were characterized in detail using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction, and electron probe microanalysis. The results showed that the layered structure of the DP Fe-0.16C-1.4Mn steel after super-fast heating was mainly composed of recrystallized ferrite, martensite clusters, and a small amount of residual austenite. Compared with the conventional method, super-fast heating significantly refined the grains and improved yield and tensile strength, but it slightly reduced the elongation. The fraction of martensite, which depends on the nucleation and growth behavior of austenite, was significantly affected by the heating rate and holding time. The DP structure of Fe-0.16C-1.4Mn steel had an atypical layered heterogeneous structure, with an uneven plastic strain between the two phases occurring during the deformation process, which is something that can improve fracture elongation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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10 pages, 4987 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surface Modification of Chromium–Nickel Steel by Electrolytic Plasma Nitriding Method

by Zarina Satbayeva, Bauyrzhan Rakhadilov, Zhangabay Turar, Nurbol Berdimuratov, Daryn Baizhan and Almasbek Maulit

Crystals 2024, 14(9), 759; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst14090759 - 26 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1156

Abstract

Electrolytic plasma nitriding is an attractive chemical heat treatment used to improve the surface properties of steel by implementing nitrogen saturation. This method is widely applied to steel and iron-based alloys operating under various operating conditions. In this work, using liquid-phase plasma nitriding [...] Read more.

Electrolytic plasma nitriding is an attractive chemical heat treatment used to improve the surface properties of steel by implementing nitrogen saturation. This method is widely applied to steel and iron-based alloys operating under various operating conditions. In this work, using liquid-phase plasma nitriding technology, a nitrided layer was obtained on the surface of 40CrNi steel in electrolytes of different concentrations. The microstructure and phase composition of the nitrided layer were investigated and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and we performed Vickers hardness and wear resistance tests using the ball-on-disc method. The microhardness and wear resistance of nitrided 40CrNi steel were significantly improved due to the lubricating properties of the ε-Fe₂N phase formed on its surface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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10 pages, 4494 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stabilization Effect of Interfacial Solute Segregation on θ′ Precipitates in Al-Cu Alloys

by Shangshang Liang, Shengping Wen, Baosheng Liu, Yong Hu, Wu Wei, Xiaolan Wu, Hui Huang, Kunyuan Gao, Xiangyuan Xiong and Zuoren Nie

Metals 2024, 14(8), 848; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14080848 - 24 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1460

Abstract

The effects of Sc, Mg and Si elements in an Al-Cu alloy have been studied by means of hardness tests and transmission electron microscopy analysis. The experimental results show that additions of Sc, Mg and Si can improve the heat resistance of the [...] Read more.

The effects of Sc, Mg and Si elements in an Al-Cu alloy have been studied by means of hardness tests and transmission electron microscopy analysis. The experimental results show that additions of Sc, Mg and Si can improve the heat resistance of the Al-Cu alloy. The Sc/Mg/Si segregation-sandwiched structure is the most stable, when compared with Sc segregation or Si/Sc co-segregation at the interface of θ′/Al. The additions of Si and Mg promote the aging–hardening response of the Al-Cu alloy. Mg is a micro-alloying element with great potential in stabilizing the size of θ′ phases, which further promotes the number density greatly. Consequently, the Al-Cu alloy achieves a high strength, matched with excellent thermal stability, due to the microalloying of Sc/Mg/Si solutes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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12 pages, 12345 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Weight Factor as a Parameter for Optimal Part Orientation in the L-PBF Printing Process Using Numerical Simulation

by Ľuboš Kaščák, Ján Varga, Jana Bidulská, Róbert Bidulský and Diego Manfredi

Materials 2024, 17(14), 3604; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17143604 - 22 Jul 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1370

Abstract

The L-PBF process belongs to the most modern methods of manufacturing complex-shaped parts. It is used especially in the automotive, aviation industries, and in the consumer products industry as well. Numerical simulation in the powder sintering process is a means of optimizing time [...] Read more.

The L-PBF process belongs to the most modern methods of manufacturing complex-shaped parts. It is used especially in the automotive, aviation industries, and in the consumer products industry as well. Numerical simulation in the powder sintering process is a means of optimizing time efficiency, accuracy and predicting future errors. It is one of the means to optimize the L-PBF process, which makes it possible to investigate the influence of individual parameters on additive manufacturing. This research makes it possible to predict the correct orientation of a part based on selected criteria, which are assigned a weighting factor in the form of parameters with which the simulation software Simufact Additive can work. Based on these, three possible orientations of the part were analysed with respect to the area of the supporting material, the volume of the supporting material, the number of voxels, and the building risk. Finally, the results of a simulation and the results of the tensile test were compared. From the results of the static tensile test, as well as from the results of the numerical simulation, it was found that better characteristics were achieved for the orientation of part no. 1 compared to orientation of part No. 3. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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12 pages, 9112 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revealing the Superior Post-Necking Elongation in the Fine-Grained Ti-6Al-4V ELI at Cryogenic Temperature

by Quan Gao, Rengeng Li, Hao Wu, Kesong Miao, He Wu, Chenglu Liu and Xuewen Li

Metals 2024, 14(5), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14050600 - 20 May 2024

Viewed by 1123

Abstract

The mechanical properties of a fine-grained (FG) Ti-6Al-4V extra-low interstitial (ELI) alloy were investigated by tensile tests at 298 K and 77 K. The experimental results indicated that, at 77 K, the alloy exhibits a small uniform elongation of 2.65%, but has a [...] Read more.

The mechanical properties of a fine-grained (FG) Ti-6Al-4V extra-low interstitial (ELI) alloy were investigated by tensile tests at 298 K and 77 K. The experimental results indicated that, at 77 K, the alloy exhibits a small uniform elongation of 2.65%, but has a fracture elongation of 19.2%, showing superior post-necking elongation. At 298 K, the alloy displays a single dislocation slipping, β→α″ phase transformation occurred, and 6.35% uniform elongation was obtained, whereas the coupling of dislocation slipping and twinning deformation behaviors dominated at 77 K. The limited uniform elongation is attributed to the absence of martensite phase transformation at 77 K, whereas the decent fracture elongation is ascribed to the resistance offered by twinning against plastic instability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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14 pages, 3201 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First-Principles Study on Thermodynamic, Structural, Mechanical, Electronic, and Phonon Properties of tP16 Ru-Based Alloys

by Bhila Oliver Mnisi, Moseti Evans Benecha and Malebo Meriam Tibane

Alloys 2024, 3(2), 126-139; https://doi.org/10.3390/alloys3020007 - 15 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1636

Abstract

Transition metal-ruthenium alloys are promising candidates for ultra-high-temperature structural applications. However, the mechanical and electronic characteristics of these alloys are not well understood in the literature. This study uses first-principles density functional theory calculations to explore the structural, electronic, mechanical, and phonon properties [...] Read more.

Transition metal-ruthenium alloys are promising candidates for ultra-high-temperature structural applications. However, the mechanical and electronic characteristics of these alloys are not well understood in the literature. This study uses first-principles density functional theory calculations to explore the structural, electronic, mechanical, and phonon properties of X₃Ru (X = Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn) binary alloys in the tP16 crystallographic phase. We find that Mn₃Ru, Sc₃Ru, Ti₃Ru, V₃Ru, and Zn₃Ru have negative heats of formation and hence are thermodynamically stable. Mechanical analysis (C_ij) indicates that all tP16-X₃Ru alloys are mechanically stable except, Fe₃Ru and Cr₃Ru. Moreover, these compounds exhibit ductility and possess high melting temperatures. Furthermore, phonon dispersion curves indicate that Cr₃Ru, Co₃Ru, Ni₃Ru, and Cu₃Ru are dynamically stable, while the electronic density of states reveals all the X₃Ru alloys are metallic, with a significant overlap between the valence and conduction bands at the Fermi energy. These findings offer insights into the novel properties of the tP16 X₃Ru intermetallic alloys for the exploration of high-temperature structural applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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23 pages, 14268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Tensile Properties and Hardness of Inconel 718 by Cold Rolling

by Wakshum Mekonnen Tucho, Anders Thon Sletsjøe, Navid Sayyar and Vidar Hansen

Metals 2024, 14(4), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/met14040455 - 12 Apr 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3154

Abstract

The as-received commercial Inconel 718 material was solid solution heat treated (ST), cold-rolled (CR), and precipitation-hardened (PH) to investigate the effects of deformation on the tensile properties, hardness, and texture. Three sets of specimens (0%, 20%, and 50% CR) were ST at 1100 [...] Read more.

The as-received commercial Inconel 718 material was solid solution heat treated (ST), cold-rolled (CR), and precipitation-hardened (PH) to investigate the effects of deformation on the tensile properties, hardness, and texture. Three sets of specimens (0%, 20%, and 50% CR) were ST at 1100 °C/1 h, CR, and aged (720 °C/8 h + 650 °C/8 h) for the analysis. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS), 0.2% yield strength (YS), and elongation of 50% deformed condition were 1645 MPa, 1512 MPa, and 3.8%, respectively. The 20% deformation resulted in a balanced UTS (1348 MPa), YS (1202 MPa), and elongation (11%). The contribution of precipitation hardening to the strength decreased, while the contribution of CR increased with an increasing percentage of deformation. As the level of deformation increased, the size and quantity of γ″ decreased proportionally. The CR specimens produced a high density of nano/micro twins with twin planes oriented perpendicular to the RD-ND surface. The gradient of crystal orientation and internal features of large austenitic grains were generated by their preferred rotation. The cross-slip of screw dislocations induced a complete β-fiber consisting of {110}<112>, {112}<111>, and {123}<634>, with doubled intensity at the higher deformation. Additionally, the specimens were highly susceptible to the twinning-induced orientation emerged by a predominant <110>//ND. In the as-deformed condition, an incomplete but intense α-fiber, clustered between {110}<001> and {110}<112>, was characterized. Apart from achieving the highest strength, the current work demonstrates the effects of CR on the material strength without the complex influences of δ precipitates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Microstructure and Properties in Metals and Alloys, 3rd Volume)

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