Enhanced mechanical performance of fusion zone in laser beam welding joint of molybdenum alloy due to solid carburizing

It is unable to strengthen molybdenum (Mo) through solid-state phase transformation, while exploring the effect of carbon (C) on microstructures and properties of fusion zone (FZ) of laser beam welding (LBW) joints of Mo alloy with serious grain boundary embrittlement is significant. An analysis was made on changes of bonding strength of grain boundary and precipitates on the grain boundary surface in the FZ of Mo carburized welded joints, and the existing form and strengthening mechanism of carbon. At first, solid carburizing (SC) can achieve the goal of adding the C to welded joints and C mainly appeared as C atoms and Mo2C in Mo alloy. Afterwards, C could increase the grain boundary strength and the plasticity of grains in the FZ. Therefore, the compatibility of deformation at grain boundary and grain interior was improved. Finally, Mo2C distributing at the grain boundary can inhibit the crack propagation during the deformation. As a result, the tensile strength of carburized weld joints rose by 426% compared with that of uncarburized weld joints, meanwhile the above results provide a new idea for the method for strengthening the Mo fusion weld joints. Keywords: Molybdenum, Carbon, Laser beam welding, Grain boundary embrittlement