Effect of element Te on alterations of microstructure and mechanical property of nickel-based superalloy Inconel 718 through alloy infiltration

Alloying elements have significant effects on material physical and mechanical properties. The present work studies the effect of element Te on the alterations of microstructure and mechanical property of nickel-based superalloy Inconel 718. Te was diffused into the surface layer of treated samples with a new alloy infiltration method. The microstructure and element distribution within the modified layer were tested and quantitatively characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The depth of infiltration layer presented an approximately linear relationship with the treating temperature range from 700 °C to 900 °C. Furthermore, the mechanical property of the modified layer was evaluated through nano-indentation experiments. The results show that the Te infiltration into the surface layer of Inconel 718 presents a gradient distribution from the outmost surface to the matrix, and it results in a substantial weakening of the modified layer. A gradual decrease in nano-hardness was detected from the surface to the matrix, and the nano-hardness value of infiltration layer was weakened by 31% for the Te infiltration treatment at 900 °C. The underlying weakening mechanism of Te on the superalloy Inconel 718 was revealed. Te element penetrates along the grain boundary leading to the formation of new intercrystalline phases. Consequently, the grain boundary is “opened” which causes the embrittlement of grain boundaries and weakening of the treated surface. This study can not only help to understand the influence of alloying elements on the variation of material properties, but also provide guidance for design of material compositions.