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Mg-3Sn-1Mn-xLa alloy bars were prepared using backward extrusion, and the effects of the La content on the microstructures and mechanical properties of the alloy were systematically studied using an optical microscope (OM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and tensile tests. The results of this research show that the Mg2Sn phases were mainly formed at the α-Mg grain boundaries and within the grains in the Mg-3Sn-1Mn alloy. After adding a certain amount of La, the plate-shaped MgSnLa compounds consisting of Mg17La2, Mg2Sn, and La5Sn3 gradually disappeared in the α-Mg matrix and grain boundaries. With an increase in La content, the Mg2Sn phase in the crystal was gradually refined and spheroidized. When the content of La reached 1.5%, the tensile strength of the alloy reached 300 Mpa and the elongation reached 12.6%, i.e., 25% and 85% increases, respectively, compared to the Mg-3Sn-1Mn alloy. The plate-shaped compound of Mg-3Sn-1Mn-1.5La had an average length of 3000 ± 50 nm, while the width was 350 ± 10 nm. Meanwhile, the extruded alloy's grain size was significantly refined, and there were many small cleavage steps and dimples in the fracture surface of the alloy. When the La content reached 2%, the alloy performance showed a downward trend due to the coarsening of the grains. The formed plate-shaped MgSnLa compounds and Mg2Sn phases were consistent with the α-Mg matrix. They effectively pinned the dislocations and grain boundaries, which is the main reason for strengthening the mechanical properties of extrusion alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mg77+xNi20−xLa3 (x = 0, 5, 10, 15) alloys were successfully prepared by the vacuum induction melting method. The structural characterizations of the alloys were performed by using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. The effects of nickel content on the microstructure and hydrogen storage kinetic of the as-cast alloys were investigated. The results showed that the alloys are composed of a primary phase of Mg2Ni, lamella eutectic composites of Mg + Mg2Ni, and some amount of LaMg12 and La2Mg17. Nickel addition significantly improved the hydrogen-absorption kinetic performance of the alloy. At 683 K, Mg77Ni20La3 alloy and Mg82Ni15La3 alloy underwent hydrogen absorption and desorption reactions for 2 h, respectively, and their hydrogen absorption and desorption capacities were 4.16 wt.% and 4.1 wt.%, and 4.92 wt.% and 4.69 wt.%, respectively. Using the Kissinger equation, it was calculated that the activation energy values of Mg77Ni20La3, Mg82Ni15La3, Mg87Ni10La3 and Mg92Ni5La3 alloys were in the range of 68.5~75.2 kJ/mol, much lower than 150~160 kJ/mol of MgH2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn has been added to the Al-12.5wt%Si-2wt%Cu-1wt%Mg (abbrev Al-12.5Si-2Cu-Mg) alloy. By utilizing optical microscope (OM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM), the microstructure and phase structure of the alloy were investigated. The alloy's mechanical properties and wear resistance were evaluated. The results demonstrate that the as-cast microstructure of Al-12.5Si-xZn-2Cu-1Mg alloy consists of (α-Al + Si) eutectic, a minor amount of primary Si, θ-Al2Cu phase, Q-Al5Cu2Mg8Si6 phase, and π-Al8Mg3FeSi6 phase. In the final solidification zone of an alloy with a Zn content greater than 2%, a Zn-rich granular phase is observed. With an increase in Zn content, the size of the Si phase decreases and the number of θ-Al2Cu phase decreases. Zn slightly raises the formation temperature of primary Si, decreases the (α-Al + Si) eutectic transition temperature, and significantly decreases the formation temperatures of θ-Al2Cu and Q-Al5Cu2Mg8Si6 phases. The yield strength and hardness of the as-cast alloy raise with increasing Zn content, whereas the elongation decreases and the tensile strength first increases and then decreases slightly. The tensile strength is the greatest when the weight percentage of Zn is 2wt%. After T6 treatment, the tensile strength, yield strength, and hardness of the alloy rise in proportion to the alloy's Zn content, and its resistance to wear is greatly enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a precise method for the orientation process of NiMnGa-based single crystals. For this method, a scanning electron microscope equipped with an EBSD camera and a heating stage allowing temperatures exceeding 873 K was used. The orientation process was carried out in both the high-temperature austenite phase and in the room-temperature martensite phase. The facilities allowed for determining the orientation of a single grain of austenite at elevated temperatures as well as the orientation of particular martensitic variants at room temperature. A practically perfect cubic orientation was obtained in the austenitic case with a deviation of about 1° while the samples oriented in the martensitic phase deviated from the desired orientation by 4.5-5.2°. Additionally, the training process of single crystals was carried out in order to show the influence of the orientation process on twinning stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel HEAp-Ti/Al laminated composites embedded with particles of the high-entropy alloy Al0.5CoCrFeNi (HEA) were fabricated by vacuum hot-press sintering at 730 °C. The phase composition and microstructure of the composites were studied with X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope SEM, energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD) techniques. At this temperature, it has been observed that Al3Ti intermetallic compound is the favored phase and the reaction results in the dispersion of Al3Ti in the original Al layer. A large number of interfaces are formed between Al3Ti and Al. The deformed Al3Ti grains are concentrated in the interface near the Ti side. The mechanical properties, including tensile and compressive properties at room temperature, were analyzed. The tensile test results indicate that the composite exhibited an average tensile strength of 258 MPa and an average yield strain of 9.86%. Compression test results show that when a load perpendicular to the layer is applied, the yield strain and yield stress of the material are 9.67% and 474.09 MPa, respectively. Moreover, under a load parallel to the layer, the material fails due to interfacial debonding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, Fe-Cr-C-N-Al-Y wear-resistant surfacing alloy was prepared by open-arc surfacing with self-shielded flux-cored wire. The wear properties of the surfacing alloy were analyzed using an MLS-23 rubber wheel wet sand wear tester. The phase composition and microstructure of the surfacing alloy were analyzed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, electron backscatter diffraction and transmission electron microscope; the strengthening mechanism and wear mechanism of the alloy were discussed. The results show that the microstructure of Fe-Cr-C-N-Al-Y surfacing alloy is composed of M + γ-Fe + M7C3 + AlN. When the content of nano-Y2O3 is 0.456 wt.%, the formability of the surfacing alloy is the best, and the wetting angle is the smallest, which is 50.8°; AlN and M7C3 precipitate the most, and the microstructure grain is the smallest. At this time, the hardness value of the surfacing alloy is up to 62.3 HRC, which is 11.8% higher than that of the unmodified surfacing alloy. The minimum wear weight loss is 0.125 g, and the wear resistance is increased by 41.86%. The wear mechanism of the surfacing alloy is mainly a plastic deformation mechanism, and the material removal processes are microcutting and furrow wear. This study provides theoretical guidance for refining primary carbides and improving the wear resistance of high chromium cast iron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of magnesium addition on the microstructure and comprehensive properties of Al-5Si-5.3Cu-0.3Sr-0.2Zr-0.2Y-0.06Ti alloys were investigated by optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, hardness tester, and tensile testing machine. It is found that the addition of magnesium increases the number of undissolved particles in the alloy. However, on the one hand, magnesium addition refines the θ′ phase and increases its number density in the alloy. On the other hand, it generates a smaller Q′ phase. Both phases can enhance the precipitation strengthening and dislocation strengthening of the alloy. In addition, adding magnesium reduces the width of the precipitation-free zone (PFZ) and changes the distribution of grain boundary precipitates (GBPs). At 1% magnesium addition, the dislocation strengthening and precipitation strengthening effects of the θ′ and Q′ phases were the best, the width of PFZ was the smallest, and the GBPs were discontinuously arranged along the PFZ. Therefore, a high-strength, high-hardness, and intergranular corrosion-resistant cast aluminum alloy with dense structure, a tensile strength of 364.4 MPa, elongation of 4.87%, hardness of 145.4 HV, and intergranular corrosion grade of 3 was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new technology of mineral wool production with Nickel–Iron alloy waste residue has excellent prospect of development and application. The viscosity and crystallization behavior of Nickel–Iron alloy waste residue significantly influence the production process of the mineral wool. In current work, the influences of basicity on the viscosity and crystallization for four Nickel–Iron alloy waste residues have been investigated by confocal scanning laser microscope and viscometer, respectively. The crystals morphologies are characterized by field scanning electron microscope, and the compositions are analyzed by energy dispersive spectroscopy. According to the results, it is obvious that the experimental slag crystallization behaviors are consistent with crystallization kinetic model (Johnson-Mehl-Avrami equation). The crystallization rate, the crystal size, and the crystallization ability of Nickel–Iron alloy waste residue increases with increasing the slag basicity from 0.03 to 0.53. The main crystalline product is protopyroxene for No. 1 and No. 2 slags, and olivine for No. 3 and No. 4 slags. However, the viscosity of Nickel–Iron alloy waste residue decreases with the increase of basicity. The precipitation process of crystal has great influence on the viscosity of slag, and the influence degree of different crystal types is different. When the crystals in the slag grow up to a certain extent, the viscosity of the slag will increase dramatically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the hot workability of an experimental, non-toxic, low-cost Ti-3.4Fe alloy using flow stress analysis, constitutive modelling, processing maps and microstructural examination. Hot compression tests were performed on Ti-3.4Fe alloy samples at different deformation temperatures (750, 800, 850 and 900 °C), strain rates (0.05, 0.1, 1 and 10 s−1) and a total strain of 0.6. The compression tests were performed using a Gleeble® 3500 thermomechanical simulator. The isothermally compressed samples were analysed using a scanning electron microscope to assess the microstructure. An Arrhenius-based model was used to derive the constitutive constants. From the results, the stress exponent and activation energy were 4.91 and 611 kJ.mol−1 under the steady-state stress condition and 5.32 and 675 kJ.mol−1 at peak stress. The stress exponents suggested a dislocation climb and glide mechanism controlling deformation. The processing map showed that the optimum conditions to deform Ti-3.4Fe were 850 °C at a strain rate of 0.1 s−1 for both steady-state and peak stresses. The microstructure revealed kinked, rotated and bent lamella at the safe region (850 °C at 0.05 s−1), confirming the dominance of dynamic recovery as the softening mechanism. Instabilities manifested as cracks and inhomogeneity at 750 °C and 1 s−1 and at 850 °C and 10 s−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium-based alloys were more prevalent in automobile applications owing to their mechanical properties, low mass, and density. However, its poor mechanical properties are restricting its applications. Therefore, the present study focuses on improving the mechanical properties of AZ31D alloy by reinforcing silicon carbide (SiC) and graphite (Gr) nanoparticles with weight fractions of 2%, 4%, and 6% using stir-casting technique. The microstructure analysis was performed using a scanning electron microscope. The elemental analysis was confirmed using energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction was used to study various phases in the nanocomposites. Further, the mechanical properties, such as microhardness, ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and compression strength of the nanocomposites, were significantly improved by 53%, 59%, 62%, and 82%, respectively, as compared with base alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The microstructure and corrosion behavior of Ti-30Zr-xNb (x = 7, 10, 13 at.%) alloy for oil and gas downhole tools are studied. The microstructure of alloy is characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), optical microscope (OM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results show that with the increase of Nb content, the alloy changed from α″ phase and β phase to a single β phase, and the addition of Nb reduced the crystalline grain size. In addition, sub-grains are found in the original grains of TZN alloys, which may be due to the phase decomposition caused by the Nb content exceeding the solid solubility limit. The electrochemical behavior of the alloy is studied by measuring the open circuit potential (OCP), cyclic voltammetry curve (CV), Tafel curve (TF), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Cyclic voltammetry curve and Tafel curve showed that the addition of Nb could stabilize the passivation film of Ti-Zr alloy and reduce the pitting sensitivity, among which Ti-30Zr-10Nb alloy has the best corrosion resistance, and its corrosion potential and current density are 0.36 (V) and 2.813 (× 10−8A cm2) respectively. EIS results show that Nb can significantly improve the corrosion resistance of the alloy by optimizing the microstructure of the passivation film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The as-received AZ91D Mg alloy was coated with ZrO2 and ZrN ceramics using the Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) process. Dry sliding wear investigations were performed in a pin-on-disc wear tester at a sliding velocity of 2-8 m/s and a normal load of 2-10 N. The wear mechanisms such as abrasion, delamination, thermal softening, and oxidation were observed. The results showed that PVD coating increased the wear resistance of AZ91D Mg alloy. The worn surface was examined with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this research is to analyze the mechanical performances of the influence of silicon carbide (SiC) particles with AA6351 aluminum alloy. The aluminum metal matrix composites were prepared with liquefying stir casting to produce the metal matrix composites (MMCs). The following weight fractions are AA6351-0% SiC, AA6351-2.5% SiC, AA6351-5% SiC, and AA6351-7.5% SiC utilized to compose the MMCs. The mechanical performances like hardness, flexural, impact, compressive, and tensile studies were investigated on the processed MMCs. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) was employed to examine the strengthened particle of SiC. During the SEM examinations, uniformly dispersed SiC-strengthened particles were analyzed. The entire MMCs specimens achieve greater mechanical characteristics; the specimen fabricated with a maximum volume fraction of 7.5 wt% of SiC accumulates higher strength than the other volume fractions samples. The SiC plays a very tedious role in improving mechanical attributes. The fabricated MMCs were highly utilized in the applications of automotive and aerospace usages. This application is fully employed with lesser weight and maximum strength conditions to fulfill the mechanical performances. The stir-casting process was a highly efficient technique to compose better MMCs to achieve greater strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various electrochemical techniques were used to study the corrosion behaviour of the CNT-reinforced NiAl alloys under NaCl and Na2SO4 environments. The potentiodynamic polarization curves revealed activation Tafel behaviour when the NiAl alloy specimens were immersed in NaCl solution while passivation followed by slight development of transpassivation resulted under Na2SO4 environment. The reinforcement of pure NiAl alloy with up to 1.0 wt.% CNT increased the corrosion rate from 0.10 to 0.63 mm/yr under NaCl environment, while under Na2SO4 environment, the corrosion rate increased from 0.04 to 0.12 mm/yr. The observed increase in corrosion rate with an increase in CNT reinforcement (under both NaCl and Na2SO4 environments) suggested that the reinforcement of NiAl alloys with CNT reduced the corrosion resistance of NiAl. The X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the corrosion products consisted of oxides including Al2O3 under NaCl environment, while scanning electron microscope analysis showed a porous passive layer on the surface of the alloy specimens immersed in Na2SO4 solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of graphene nanosheets (GNPs) on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of ADC12 alloy in HCl solution were researched by optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive spectrometer, x-ray diffraction and electrochemical measurements. The microstructural evolution revealed that the addition of GNPs could significantly refine the α-Al, Si and β-Al5FeSi phases, thus optimizing the microstructure of ADC12 alloy. The results of electrochemical experiments demonstrated that the corrosion current density of ADC12-0.9 wt.% GNPs alloy (1.18 mA cm−2) was 62.7% lower than that of the matrix (3.17 mA cm−2), and the corrosion potential (− 534 mV) was 8.4% higher than that of ADC12 (− 579 mV). Moreover, the value of polarization resistance (70.74 Ω cm2) was highest when adding 0.9 wt.% GNPs, indicating the improved corrosion resistance. The results of immersion tests indicated that the corrosion rate of the ADC12-0.9 wt.% GNPs alloy (VM = 16.31 ± 0.81 mg cm−2 d−1) was 62.3% lower than that of the matrix (VM = 43.16 ± 1.69 mg cm−2 d−1). Moreover, the effect of GNPs on the micro-galvanic corrosion for ADC12 alloy was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxidation behavior of Zr–2.5Nb alloy at 500 °C, 600 °C and 700 °C from 0.5 to 24 h in a tubular furnace with dry air was systematically investigated by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope and nanoindentation techniques. The results indicate that there is an oxidation rate transition related to grain morphologies of the oxide layer. It showed that the equiaxed grains are good for the oxidation in pre-transition, while the columnar grains are unfavorable to the oxidation in post-transition. The oxide layers first grow with small equiaxed grains and then, become columnar grains. Both t-ZrO2 and m-ZrO2 were identified in the equiaxed grains, while only m-ZrO2 was identified in the columnar grains. Some sub-oxides with different morphologies were observed in the substrate at the beginning of oxidation and were not found after long time oxidation. The occurrence of the oxygen-assisted eutectoid phase transformation of βZr → αZr + βNb results in the decomposition of βZr phase and the precipitation of βNb phase in the microstructure near oxide layer/substrate interface. As the oxide layer thickens, its nano-hardness firstly increases and then decreases, while its adhesion increases gradually. The present study suggests that thicker oxide layers with limited microcracks may also be suitable for the bearing surface of artificial joints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, to improve the corrosion protection system of Mg–Li alloy, Magnesia–alumina Layered double hydroxide (Mg–Al LDH) films were prepared on the LA103Z magnesium–lithium (Mg–Li) alloy by the in situ hydrothermal method. Subsequently, the microstructure of the Mg–Al LDH films was characterized by scanning electron microscope, X‐ray spectrometer, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and the effect of different hydrothermal temperatures on the growth of the film was studied. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and hydrogen evolution test were used to study the corrosion behavior of the films, revealing the anticorrosion mechanism of the films. The results show that the LDH film is in the form of a sheet‐like structure that crosses vertically on the LA103Z substrate. With the increase of the hydrothermal temperature, the size of the Mg–Al LDH sheet increases, and the distribution is denser. Electrochemical tests showed that the coated samples had significantly improved impedance modulus (|Z|) and charge transfer resistance (Rt) compared to bare samples. The potentiodynamic polarization curves demonstrated that the Mg–Al LDH film can effectively improve the corrosion resistance of the LA103Z magnesium alloy substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the influence of the high-pressure torsion (HPT) processing parameters and solution treatment (ST) on the corrosion and tribocorrosion behavior of CoCrMo (CCM) alloys was investigated for possible usage in biomedical applications. The corrosion behavior of the CCM alloys was investigated by using potentiodynamic scanning (PDS) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests. Tribocorrosion tests were carried out in a reciprocating ball-on-plate tribometer at 1 Hz, 1 N load, and 3 mm stroke length for 2 h. All electrochemical measurements were performed using a potentiostat in standard phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution at body temperature (37 ± 2 °C). The samples were characterized by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), optical microscope (OM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The deepness and width of wear tracks were examined by using a profilometer. The results showed that HPT and ST processes did not affect significantly the corrosion resistance of samples. However, the ST-treated samples had a higher material loss during sliding in standard phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at body temperature as compared to HPT-treated samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the microstructure characterization and mechanical properties of Al alloy fabricated by additive friction stir deposition (AFSD). Microstructure characterizations of the Al alloy 5B70 base material (BM) and build were compared using optical microscope (OM) and electron back scattered diffraction (EBSD). The hardness distribution in the direction perpendicular to the cross-section of the deposited area was systematically evaluated. Tensile tests were performed on the BM and the build using digital image correlation (DIC), and the real-time stress distribution states of the specimens were analyzed. After the tensile tests, the fracture micromorphology was characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results indicated that a high degree of recrystallization occurred in the deposition zone, where fine, equiaxed, and differently oriented grains are formed. It was found that the strength of the deposition layer was lower compared to that of the BM, but its toughness was significantly improved. Also, obvious anisotropy of mechanical properties was identified in the deposition layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to investigate the influence of silver addition on the microstructure of CuNi2Si1 alloys. The investigated copper alloy was cast and then supersaturated, plastically deformed on the Gleeble 3800 simulator and finally aged. Structural changes were examined using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Orientation mapping was completed with FEI Quanta 3D field emission gun scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with TSL electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) system. The effect of structural and microstructural changes on hardness and conductivity was also investigated. Based on the mechanical tests it was found that the mechanical properties and conductivity are improved due to heat and plastic treatment. It was also found that the precipitation hardening raises the hardness to the level of 40% whilst an increase in conductivity by 20% is observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this work is to study the influence of thermal effect on the surface morphology of the Fe–Cr–Al (Kh15Yu5) alloy foil and the elemental composition of the surface layers. Also, studies have been carried out on the physicochemical characteristics of the primary support with the deposited secondary support in the initial state and within the temperature range from 25 to 900 °C. The research was carried out on a JSM 6610 LV, JEOL scanning electron microscope with an installed INCA Energy 450 energy-dispersive microanalysis system. Before depositing secondary support (aluminum oxide), for a stronger adhesion to the foil metal, the foil surface was pretreated with a phosphating solution. It was found that during heating up the elemental composition of the surface layer of the Kh15Yu5-alloy foil does not remain constant and depends on the mode of thermal effect. This implies the possibility of changing the adhesion and adsorption properties of the foil surface, as well as the need to take this into account when depositing secondary support and an active phase to the foil. Studies have shown that the applied methods for phosphatizing and depositing secondary support to the foil surface make it possible to obtain a quite resistant coating. No peeling of the secondary support from the foil surface is observed during high-temperature treatment in the air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxide film on the scrap surface is one of the primary sources of oxide inclusions in the aluminum melt. Understanding the evolution of the oxide films in the aluminum melt is an important step for developing efficient recycling technologies and controlling the quality of the product. In the present study, we studied the evolution behavior of the oxide film in the aluminum melt. The oxide films were introduced via aluminum alloy scraps into the melt, and the micro-morphology and composition of the oxide film were analyzed by scanning electron microscope and energy spectrum. Results show that the oxide film on the surface of 1235 alloy foil, A356 alloy turning, and 5083 alloy scalping were broken into small flake oxide film and then transformed into minor granular oxide when the scraps were charged into commercial purity aluminum melt. However, in aluminum alloy melt containing magnesium, the oxide film remained an intact sheet shape up to a certain melt dwelling time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hot deformation process significantly affects the performance of the manufactured Zr alloy components in nuclear reactors. The hot deformation behavior of the Zr-1wt.% Nb alloy with an initial β-quenched microstructure was evaluated using hot compression test at the temperature range of 600-950 °C and the strain rate range of 0.001-0.8 s−1. The constitutive equation was determined using kinetic analysis. The strong effect of Nb on decreasing self-diffusion in Zr was the reason for the obtained large activation energy of 390 kJ/mol in the Zr-1Nb alloy. Based on the dynamic material model, the processing map was constructed at the strain of 0.8 to show the stable and unstable hot deformation regions. The microstructural features of the hot deformed samples were observed using optical and scanning electron microscopes. The results indicated that the hot deformed microstructures were fully recrystallized so that the grain size of the as-received microstructure of the Zr-1Nb alloy was reduced from 1 mm to less than 4 μm after hot deformation at 800 °C. The optimum region in the hot deformation of the Zr-1Nb alloy with dynamic recrystallized microstructure and the peak efficiency of 40% was located at the temperature range of 675-775 °C and the strain rate range of 0.001-0.01 s−1. On the other hand, flow localization and macro-surface cracking occurred within the strain rate range of 0.1-0.8 s−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of quenching temperature on phase structure and magnetocaloric properties of the Mn0.975Fe0.975P0.5Si0.5 alloys are systematically studied by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, differential scanning calorimetry, and vibrating sample magnetometer. The Mn0.975Fe0.975P0.5Si0.5 alloys quenched at 1323, 1073, 873, and 673 K are all crystallized in the hexagonal Fe2P‐type phase and the phase fraction of the Fe2P phase increases with the decreases of quenching temperature. As the quenching temperature decreases from 1323 to 673 K, the crystal lattice of alloys expands and the atoms' occupation is more ordered, while the saturation magnetic moment increases from 3.71 to 4.10 μB f.u.−1 The values of thermal hysteresis increase linearly from 30 to 41 K when the quenching temperature is down to 673 K. This enhancement of the first‐order magnetic transition (FOMT) yields the maximum value of magnetic entropy change at 5 T increasing by 36%. To obtain excellent comprehensive properties for (Mn,Fe)2(P,Si) alloys, the methods of doping B element in the Mn0.975Fe0.975P0.5Si0.5 alloy are employed to tune the magnetocaloric properties. The results provide insights and systematic understanding into the effect of quenching temperature on the magnetocaloric properties of (Mn,Fe)2(P,Si)‐based alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu–9Ni–6Sn alloys have received widespread attention due to their good mechanical properties and resistance to stress relaxation in the electronic and electrical industries. The hot compression deformation behaviors of the Cu–9Ni–6Sn–0.3Mn–0.2Zn alloy were investigated using the Gleeble-3500 thermal simulator at a temperature range of 700–900 °C and a strain rate range of 0.001–1 s−1. The microstructural evolution of the Cu–9Ni–6Sn alloy during hot compression was studied by means of an optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope. The constitutive equation of hot compression of the alloy was constructed by peak flow stress, and the corresponding 3D hot processing maps were plotted. The results showed that the peak flow stress decreased with the increase in the compression temperature and the decrease in the strain rate. The hot deformation activation energy was calculated as 243.67 kJ/mol by the Arrhenius equation, and the optimum deformation parameters for the alloy were 740–760 °C and 840–900 °C with a strain rate of 0.001~0.01 s−1. According to Deform-3D finite element simulation results, the distribution of the equivalent strain field in the hot deformation samples was inhomogeneous. The alloy was more sensitive to the deformation rate than to the temperature. The simulation results can provide a guideline for the optimization of the microstructure and hot deformation parameters of the Cu–9Ni–6Sn–0.3Mn–0.2Zn alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of Ti content in various concentrations as an alloying element with Al on both microhardness and crystallization structure of aluminum–titanium alloys was studied, utilizing x-ray diffraction (XRD) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). To study the electrochemical and corrosion performance of Al and its investigated alloys in 0.5 M solutions of HCl and H3PO4, two different techniques were used: extrapolation of Tafel plot and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Tafel plots and EIS revealed a similar trend. Generally, the rate of corrosion of the alloys was higher than that of Al. This investigation exhibited that the corrosion of Al alloying with Ti increased with an increase in both Ti content and temperature, which is due to reducing the growth of oxide film on the surface. Changes in the standard values of both entropy (ΔS) and enthalpy (ΔH), in addition to apparent activation energy (Ea) of corrosion processes of Al and its alloys in HCl and H3PO4, were evaluated. The evaluated data indicated negative values of ΔS, while the values of ΔH were positive. Besides, the decrease in ΔH value with the increase of Ti content in the alloy revealed that the dissolution of the studied alloys was fast. The positive values of ΔH were accompanied by an endothermic process. On the other hand, the activation energy (Ea) was decreased as a result of Al alloying with Ti in the two mentioned acids. Those results were supported by the corrosion current density (icorr.) and impedance parameters. By comparing the data obtained for both HCl and H3PO4 in all investigated electrodes, the corrosion current density (icorr.) in H3PO4 was lower than that in HCl. Such behavior can be ascribed to the aggressive attack of Cl¯ ions on the surfaces of the investigated electrodes, leading to pits formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An amount of 100 dpa Si2+ irradiation was used to study the effect of transmutation rhenium content on irradiated microscopic defects and hardening in W-xRe (x = 0, 1, 3, 5 and 10 wt.%) alloys at 550 °C. The increase in Re content could significantly refine the grain in the W-xRe alloys, and no obvious surface topography change could be found after high-dose irradiation via the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The micro defects induced by high-dose irradiation in W and W-3Re alloys were observed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). Dislocation loops with a size larger than 10 nm could be found in both W and W-3Re alloy, but the distribution of them was different. The distribution of the dislocation loops was more uniform in pure W, while they seemed to be clustered around some locations in W-3Re alloy. Voids (~2.4 nm) were observed in W-3Re alloy, while no void was investigated in W. High-dose irradiation induced obvious hardening with the hardening rate between 75% and 155% in all W-xRe alloys, but W-3Re alloy had the lowest hardening rate (75%). The main reasons might be related to the smallest grain size in W-3Re alloy, which suppressed the formation of defect clusters and induced smaller hardening than that in other samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium and its alloys (especially Ti6Al4V) are widely employed in aerospace and biomedical industry. Wire electric discharge machining is common in practice to machine this difficult-to-cut material. But owing to the thermo-electric nature of the process, it is challenging to have adequate level of surface integrity. This primary concern needs to be addressed as it mainly influences the surface mechanical characteristics. Therefore, the present research aims to address the aforesaid issues using well-known multipass strategy. Understanding the multipass process dynamics and requirements, the potentiality of brass wire diameters was comprehensively examined and explored during WEDM of Ti6Al4V. Considering higher cost, unavailability, environmental hazards, and straightness issues of novel zinc-coated wire electrodes, readily available brass wires provide a cheaper and widely acceptable solution to enhance surface integrity of machined parts if equivalent results can be somehow made possible. For that sake, three different brass wire diameters; 0.15 mm, 0.2 mm, and 0.25 mm have been considered to evaluate their impact on surface roughness, recast layer thickness, overcut, machined surface microhardness, and cutting speed using multipass cutting technique. Experimental results revealed that 0.15 mm uncoated brass wire can produce white layer result equivalent to Topas Plus X wire (Cu core-double Zn-rich layer coating) which outperformed among all zinc-coated wires used in previously published research. Moreover, among different diameter brass wires, surface roughness is improved by 25% using multipass cutting with 0.15 mm diameter in comparison to its counterparts. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis depicts that the said combination reduces recast layer thickness from 39.04 µm to 14.6 µm (~ 1.5 times lesser value). In addition to that, smaller diameter (0.15 mm) provides the maximum cutting rate in rough cuts (which consume maximum machining time) and dimensional accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research mainly focuses on selecting phase change materials (PCM) and container materials for next-generation concentrated solar power plants (CSP). The present study investigates the hot corrosion behaviour of Inconel 617 and 625 in Na2SO4 + 45 wt-% diatomite PCM environment at 800°C for 40, 80 and 120 h. Oxide scales developed on the alloy surfaces were examined by Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to study morphology and oxide phases. The result indicates that Inconel 617 and 625 weight changes were 1.239 and 0.925 mg cm−2 at 800°C for a maximum duration of 120 h. The dense oxide of Cr2O3 is formed on alloys 617 and 625, which gives better oxidation resistance in a PCM environment. Moreover, the Inconel 625 shows lesser weight gain compared to Inconel 617 due to the presence of higher wt-% of Cr in the alloy and Nb formation oxides reducing corrosion species diffusion rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the new route of fabrication of H-AlSi24Cu3.8Mg0.8 alloy, assisted by ultrasonic vibration stirring and squeeze casting (UVSS). The primary objective of this investigation is to establish the tribological characteristics of the prepared aluminium alloy under dry, lubricated, and coated sliding conditions. Oil SAE20W40 is used as a lubricant and diamond-like carbon (DLC) is used as a coating. Under a load between 20 N and 50 N, a linear reciprocating tribometer (LRT) with a ball-on-plate geometry is used. Alloy was examined using an optical microscope, scanning electron microscope with EDS, 3D surface profilometer, Brinell hardness tester, and tensometer for pre- and postcharacterization of alloy, surface, and worn tracks. The DLC-coated condition yields the lowest wear and coefficient of friction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft materials such as silver, copper and Babbitt SnSb11Cu6 were deposited on the surface of tin bronze by electro spark alloying (ESA) to form the antifriction coating. The data of the antifriction coating were tested by electronic balance, three-dimensional optical profilometer, scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), Xray diffractometer (XRD), Vickers microhardness tester and tribometer. The mass gain, roughness, thickness, surface morphology and phase composition, cross-section and element distribution, microhardness and tribological properties of the antifriction coating were analyzed. The results show that the grain size of the antifriction coating is fine and the metallurgical bonding between the coating and the substrate is good. The surface of each substrate is composed of three layers of coating. The optimal parameters of electro spark alloying are as follows: the discharge voltages of Ag, Cu and Babbitt alloy coatings are 60 V, 60 V and 30 V respectively, the energy storage capacitance is 150 μF, 150 μF and 90 μF respectively, and the working efficiency is 3 min/cm², 3 min/cm² and 4 min/cm² respectively. Under the optimized parameters, the average mass transfer efficiency is 54.4 mg/cm², the average surface roughness is 32.3 μm, and the maximum thickness is about 160 μm. The surface friction coefficient of the soft antifriction coating is 55.6 % of that of the tin bronze substrate. The main wear mechanisms of the soft antifriction coating prepared by electro spark alloying technique are plastic deformation accompanied by slight polishing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research work, fabrication of Al alloy metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced with electroless Ni-P-coated Al2O3 is carried out using the stir-squeeze casting method. Scrap Al alloy wheels as matrix materials and Al2O3 particles as reinforcements are used to develop the MMCs. The Ni-P coating on Al2O3 particles is carried out using an electroless process to improve mechanical and tribological properties by increasing the bonding strength between the ceramic particles and the matrix material. A pre-treatment process on Al2O3 particles is done before the electroless Ni-P coating. To analyse the properties, the composites are fabricated in three different variations, i.e. as-cast scrap Al alloy, scrap Al alloy with uncoated Al2O3 (5 wt%), and scrap Al alloy with coated Al2O3 (5 wt%). Metallurgical properties are analysed using an optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The test results show that the porosity is reduced by 15.45% in a composite reinforced with coated Al2O3 compared to the as-cast scrap Al alloy. Also, the mechanical properties such as hardness, tensile strength, and impact strength are improved significantly by 15.2, 23, and 31.25%, respectively. Reduction of 31.47% in specific wear rate and 7.34% in coefficient of friction are achieved in the composite reinforced with coated Al2O3 particles compared to the as-cast scrap Al alloy. The compressive strength is decreased significantly with the addition of uncoated Al2O3 particles. After the addition of coated Al2O3, the compressive strength of the composite is increased compared with the uncoated Al2O3-reinforced composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ti-6Al-4V is an α+β phase Ti alloy which is widely used because of its microstructural features. Complex three-dimensional (3-D) parts can be created directly from computer models by selectively melting (SLM) the metal powder using additive manufacturing (AM) technology. In this present work hot corrosion experiments were performed on the selective laser melted sample and as received sample in laboratory air and NaCl environment at 600°C for 50 cycles. The parabolic rate constants were calculated for different environments from the thermogravimetric data obtained for the samples and they show that corrosion rate is minimum in laboratory air and maximum for SLM sample in NaCl environment due to the presence of gaseous chlorides. The microstructure morphologies and the oxide scales formed upon hot corrosion was characterized by optical and scanning electron microscope (SEM) while the constituents were determined with energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis to understand the corrosion mechanisms. The high corrosion rate of SLM compared to the as-received sample was studied by analysing the area percentage of porosity. Since helicopters and planes are used in sea areas this work is practically important in the aeronautical field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of aging at different temperatures and times on the properties of AA7075-T6 alloy was investigated. The samples prepared for the experimental studies were subjected to the solution, quenching, and then aging heat treatment at 100 °C and 200 °C for different periods (42-66-90 hours). The properties of the experimental samples were investigated by hardness, compression test, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). As a result of the studies, it was determined that the aging heat treatment had a positive effect on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the AA7075 alloy compared to the reference sample. Especially as a result of the heat treatments at 100 °C, higher results were obtained in hardness and compression strength compared to the initial values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic powder alloys for additive manufacturing (AM) are required to have a certain particle size and shape distribution in different processes such as laser powder bed fusion for metallic alloys (LPBF-M). For reasons of sustainability and cost-effectiveness, it is common to recycle powder that was not melted in the build construction process. As usual in a LPBF-M process, the metal powder undergoes a heuristical designed sieving and blending procedure to maintain a certain particle distribution. However, keeping track of the powder's mean age during each building cycle can be obscure or laborious. To overcome this challenge, the authors of this research propose a theoretical model and an experimental methodology to track the powder morphology evolution with respect to a specific number of building cycles and the sieved and solidified amount of powder Such morphological investigation was carried out through a scanning electron microscope, analyzing the morphological evolution of nickel-chromium alloy metal (Inconel 718) powder. The powder analysis gives a close fit of its mean age to the span of the retained particle solidity measurements and the evolution of the mean major diameter. Recycling and thereby modifying the ageing rate of the powder, under monitoring the morphologic evolution of the particles, could be considered as a key criterion for a more effective powder usage lifetime. The findings from this methodology give insight on a predictive model for aging rate, capable of retrieving information about the effective powder's lifetime, impacting positively in the organization and storage of metal powders for AM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ti-15%Zr alloy and Ti-15%Zr-2%Ta alloy were fabricated to be used in biomedical applications. The corrosion of these two alloys after being immersed in simulated body fluid for 1 h and 72 h was investigated. Different electrochemical methods, including polarization, impedance, and chronoamperometric current with time at 400 mV were employed. Also, the surface morphology and the compositions of its formed film were reported by the use of scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray. Based on the collected results, the presence of 2%Ta in the Ti-Zr alloy passivated its corrosion by minimizing its corrosion rate. The polarization curves revealed that adding Ta within the alloy increases the corrosion resistance as was confirmed by the impedance spectroscopy and current time data. The change of current versus time proved that the addition of Ta reduces the absolute current even at high anodic potential, 400 mV. The results of both electrochemical and spectroscopic methods indicated that pitting corrosion does not occur for both Ti-Zr and Ti-Zr-Ta alloys, even after their immersion in SBF solutions for 72 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) are a special class of materials carrying combined properties that belongs to alloys and metals according to market demands. Therefore, they are used in different areas of industry, and the properties of this type of material are useful in engineering applications. Machining of such composites is of great importance to finalize the fabrication process with improved part quality. However, the process implies several challenges due to the complexity of the cutting processes and random material structure. The current study aims to examine machinability characteristics. Effects of turning a metal matrix composite built of Al2O3 sinter, saturated with an EN AC-44000 AC-AlSi11 alloy, are presented in this paper. In the present study, a turning process of new metal matrix composites was carried out to determine the state-of-the-art material for various engineering applications. During the turning process, the cutting forces, a tool's wear, and surface roughness were investigated. Further, the SEM (scanning electron microscope) analysis of cutting inserts was performed. The influence of MMC structure on the machining process and surface roughness was studied. The Al2O3 reinforcements were used in different graininess. Effects of conventional turning of the metal matrix composite with Al2O3 sinter of FEPA (Federation of European Producers of Abrasives) 046 and FEPA 100 grade were compared. Results analysis of these tests showed the necessity of continuing research on turning metal matrix composites built of an AlSi alloy and Al2O3 ceramic reinforcement. The study showed the properties of MMCs that influenced machinability. In this paper, the influence of feed rate's value on surface roughness was carried out. The significant tool wear during the turning of the MMC was proved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of the properties required for orthopedic implant operation are demonstrated by magnesium and its alloys, however, the metal degrades rapidly in the body’s environment. Therefore, a magnesium-based metal matrix composite capable of safely and gradually degrading in the body within the required healing time is required, thereby eliminating the need for a second surgery. The degradability of this newly formed alloy was done via corrosion test of this alloy in various corrosive media namely, H20, NaCl, Urine, Blood, and Plasma. Three samples A (50% reinforcement), B (25% reinforcement), and C (No reinforcement) of grade AZ31B Magnesium alloy and Calcium Carbonate powder reinforcement were developed via stir-casting technique. The impact strength of this alloy was carried out by using Charpy Impact Tester, while the microstructural characterization was determined by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corrosion behavior and microstructure of a novel multicomponent Al75Mg5Li10Zn5Cu5 low entropy alloy (Al LEA) were investigated in different Cl− ion concentrations of acidic (HCl), neutral (NaCl), and alkaline (NaOH) media. The study was performed by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods. The surface morphologies and chemical composition were examined by using a scanning electron microscope with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The results indicated that with the increase of the Cl− ion concentrations, the degradation rate with more pits and cracks was observed in both acidic and neutral media. This is due to the breakdown of Al(OH)3/Al2O3 passive layer. In an alkaline medium, increasing of pH value from pH 8 to pH 12, there was a slight increment in corrosion rate (CR). However, the corrosion trend was not witnessed on alloy surfaces because of the formation of Mg32(Al, Zn)49 and AlCu phases, which are more stable than α‐Al. The order of Al‐LEA CR is found to be HCl > NaCl > NaOH. The results obtained from the polarization and EIS were in good agreement with each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the effect of stress ratio on room temperature high‐cycle fatigue life of Ti‐43.5Al‐4Nb‐1Mo‐0.1B alloy, high‐cycle fatigue life test of TNM‐TiAl alloy at stress ratio of −1, −0.5, 0.1, 0.5, 0.8, and 1 was performed on the universal testing machine. The fracture mechanism of TNM‐TiAl alloy under different stress ratios was determined by observation and analysis of microstructure and fracture surface by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and optical microscope (OM). The results show that fatigue life of TNM‐TiAl alloy with different stress ratios is mainly affected by the mean stress and stress amplitude. The fatigue life decreases with the increase of the stress amplitude and with the decrease of the mean stress. When the stress amplitude is constant, the higher the stress ratio is, the higher the mean stress in the loading process is, the lower the fatigue life is. The sensitivity of the stress amplitude of TNM‐TiAl alloy gradually increases with the increase of the stress ratio. The different cracking mechanism and fracture mechanisms at various stress ratio are revealed. Highlights: Different stress ratios affected various fatigue fracture processes of TNM‐TiAl alloy.An equal life curve was obtained to reveal the effects of different stress ratios on TNM‐TiAl alloy.Various stress ratio affects length‐width ratio of the lamellar colonies, leading to various deformation behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, CNTs-reinforced Al-Cu-Mg-Si nanocomposites were successfully fabricated by high-energy ball milling (HEBM) combined with semi-solid stir casting. Then, the composites were subjected to hot extrusion. The Microstructure and Phase analysis of the CNT/Al-Cu-Mg-Si composites were characterized by an Optical microscope, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and XRD. Additionally, density, hardness, and wear were measured. The results revealed that the addition of CNTs effectively inhibited the growth of α-Al grains, and the grains were dramatically refined. Additionally, the dynamic recrystallization degree of the composite extruded rod gradually increased from 1.3% to 68.4%, with the content of CNTs from 0 wt% to 3.0 wt%. The hardness values of the composite increased with an increase in CNTs. Moreover, the friction factor and wear rate of the composites first decreased and then increased as the content of CNTs increased. When 1.5CNTs were added, the friction coefficient (COF) and wear rate of composites reached the minimum of 0.3577 and 3.42 mg/km, which were reduced by 30.09% and 73.03% compared with Al-Cu-Mg-Si alloy, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wear behavior of titanium alloys of Ti-4.5wt%Al + xFe (x: 2,4,6,8) produced by spark plasma sintering was investigated in order to highlight the effects of the iron additive on wear rate and coefficient of friction (COF). These research objectives were accomplished by a dry sliding experimental technique using the Tribometer (version 8.1.8) Anton Paar machine, which was carried out under normal loads at 10 N and 20 N with a linear speed of 0.06 cm/s. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques were used to characterize the titanium alloy specimens. The results indicated that the wear rate increases with an increase in the applied normal load. A minimal coefficient of friction of 0.047 and a wear rate of 1.033 × 10−5 (mm3/N/M) were observed for Ti-4.5 wt% Al + 4 wt% Fe with respect to sliding at 10 N. While at a normal load of 20 N, a minimal friction coefficient of 0.015 and a wear rate of 1.74 × 10−5 (mm3/N/M) were obtained for Ti-4.5 wt% Al + 4 wt% Fe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to improve the corrosion resistance of the 6061-Al alloy as the battery pack material for electric vehicles, and the nano-SiC/MAO composite coating was prepared. Design/methodology/approach: The corrosion resistance of coatings was evaluated by the global electrochemical test, and the local electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (LEIS) was used to study the local corrosion mechanism. The laser confocal microscope, scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) were used to characterise coatings. Findings: Results showed that the impedance of nano-SiC/MAO coating was 1–2 times higher than MAO coating, and the main corrosion product was Al(OH)3. LEIS results showed that the impedance of the nano-SiC/MAO coating was two times higher than the MAO coating. The defective SiC/Micro-arc oxidation coating still had high corrosion resistance compared to the MAO coating. Originality/value: The physical model of the local corrosion mechanism for SiC/MAO composite coating in "cavity-fracture collapse" mode was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High entropy alloys (HEA) are one of the modern-era alloys accelerating with greater velocity because of their excellent properties and different applications. In the present paper, we have successfully fabricated HEA (23Fe-21Cr-18Ni-20Ti-18Mn) powders by ball milling the elemental Fe, Cr, Ni, Ti, and Mn powders for 15 h. The advancement of the milling process and phase transformation of HEAs were studied by using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The crystallite size and the lattice strain of the HEA were calculated by using the Williamson-Hall (W-H) equation and the values were found to be 7 nm and 0.0176%, respectively. Similarly, the true lattice parameter was calculated using the Nelson–Riley (N-R) extrapolation method, and the value was found to be 3.544 Å. We have successfully investigated the electrochemical response of 15 h ball milled 23Fe-21Cr-18Ni-20Ti-18Mn HEA powders to determine the ascorbic acid (AA) using cyclic voltammetry. We have modified the carbon paste electrode with ball milled HEA of concentrations 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mg, and among them, 8 mg HEA modified carbon paste electrode (HEA-MCPE) depicted the highest current sensitivity. We reported the effect of modifier concentration, analyte concentration, scan rate, and pH on the oxidation peak of AA. The electrochemical active surface area of carbon paste and MCPE was calculated using the Nernst equation and the values were found to be 0.0014 cm2 and 0.0027 cm2, respectively. The fabricated HEA-MCPE showed excellent current sensitivity, stability, anti-fouling, and selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, low-iron Zn–Fe alloy coatings and pure Zn coatings, with or without trivalent chromium passivation treatment, were electrodeposited onto a sintered NdFeB magnet from a weak acid chloride bath. The surface morphology and structure of the coatings were then examined using the X-ray diffraction, a scanning electron microscope and 3D white-light interfering surface analysis. Meanwhile, the electrodeposition behavior and anti-corrosive properties of the coatings were investigated using cyclic voltammetry, potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and natural salt spray tests. The results indicate that a passivated Zn–Fe alloy coating with a 0.9 wt.% Fe content provided much better corrosion resistance than a pure Zn coating and could provide both anodic protection and physical barrier function in the NdFeB substrates. The Fe element in Zn–Fe alloy coating was predominantly in solid solution in η-phase and small amounts in elemental form, which was beneficial to acquire a compact coating and passivation film. Finally, the passivated Zn–Fe alloy coating withstood 210 h against a neutral 3.5 wt.% NaCl salt spray without any white rust, which was 3–4 times longer than the pure Zn coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recently developed solid-state joining technique called "friction stir spot welding" (FSSW) is used to combine metal alloys with low weldability. Significant experimental work for this study is concentrated on the FSSW of AA6063 and AA5083. The study involved fixture setup and welding pattern parameters for the sizes of the material, all of which were done on a milling machine. A cylindrical shoulder with a concave (10°) square pin profile was taken into consideration using various process parameters. The tool material is heat-treated high-carbon steel. The Taguchi L9 orthogonal array is employed for the experimental model. The influence of FSSW factors including spindle speed, time, and depth was studied, along with the relationship between tensile strength, hardness at the contact region, and hook development, which would be a nominal metallurgical pledge established in the welding zone among the interacting sheet plate. The hook structure was found in the area of contact, and thermomechanical effects were seen in the spot-welding area. It has been determined that the influencing variables are spindle speed and plunge depth. As a consequence, it was determined that a tool spindle speed of 1200 rpm, a time of 25 seconds, and a plunge depth of 0.10 mm offer better mechanical properties. The microstructural analysis of welded region was carried out using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ti–Si–Fe alloys extracted from high-titanium blast furnace slag were utilized to replace part of the silicon powders, and then nitride/oxynitride bonded SiC ceramics were prepared by reactive sintering in graphite bed. Ti–Si–Fe alloys could react with CO/N 2 at a low temperature (1200 °C), and the addition of Ti–Si–Fe alloys could reduce the nitriding temperature of Si. Density functional theory calculations suggested that Ti–Si–Fe alloys enhanced reaction activity via weakening the strength of C O and N N bonds. The regional equilibrium phase diagrams of Si–C–N–O and Ti–Si–C–N–O under CO/N 2 atmosphere were calculated by thermodynamics. The change of whiskers morphology was observed by scanning electron microscope. Furthermore, the bulk density, the cold modulus of rupture, and the cold compressive strength improved with Ti–Si–Fe alloys content. The results showed that the addition of Ti–Si–Fe alloys not only significantly promoted nitriding of Si and formation of Si 3 N 4 whiskers, but also improved the mechanical properties of the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the balanced consumption of pricey rare-earth element yttrium (Y) and improved pitting corrosion resistance of alloys, Y was partially substituted by cerium (Ce) in a novel kind of quinary AlNiCoYCex high-entropy metallic glass (HE-MG) via vacuum arc melting and rapid solidification. The microstructure, thermal stability and micro-hardness of Al30Ni30Co8Y32-xCex (x = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 8 at%) high-entropy metallic glass ribbons (hereafter referred to as HE-MG ribbons) have been systematically investigated. In addition, the electrochemical corrosion properties of these amorphous ribbons with different Ce content in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution have been determined by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. After 100 h immersion in corrosive media, scanning electron microscope images of the corroded ribbons were also characterized. The results indicated that these ribbon samples could remain in an amorphous state, and the that micro-hardness was more than 495 HV0.1. With increasing Ce content, the thermal stability started to gradually increase and then decrease. Furthermore, Ce is responsible for an improvement in anticorrosion performance compared with the Ce-free alloys. Ce-containing HE-MG ribbons showed a passive region in the electrochemical reaction, and ribbons with 3 at% Ce exhibited the most corrosion resistance by virtue of the smallest Icorr and Ipass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proton irradiation-induced hardening effect of dislocations in C35M FeCrAl alloy on glide resistance was quantified by in-situ micropillar compression testing in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Irradiation tests with a proton energy of 2 MeV were conducted at room temperature, producing plateau damage of 0.01 and 0.1 displacement per atom (dpa), respectively, and generating high density of dislocation loops with fine size (<10 nm). Single-crystal micropillars were prepared with maximizing Schmid factor for a specific slip system while minimizing the others and then compressed to active one specific slip system to measure the critical resolve shear stress (CRSS) of {110}<111> and {112}<111> slip systems, respectively. The CRSS for these two slip systems increases with increasing irradiation dose. {112}<111> slip system shows larger hardening than {110}<111> slip system. Microstructure characterization after deformation indicates that the hardening effect originates from the pinning effect of irradiation-induced defects on moving dislocations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]