Effect of ageing on the properties of the W-containing IRIS-TiAl alloy

The effects of ageing at 800 $^\circ$C on the properties of the IRIS alloy (Ti$_{49.9}$Al$_{48}$W$_2$B$_{0.1}$) are studied. The initial microstructure of this alloy densified by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) is mainly composed of lamellar colonies which are surrounded by $\gamma$ grains. The evolutions of the alloy strength and creep resistance resulting from this ageing treatment are measured by the related mechanical tests. The microstructural changes are investigated by scanning and transmission electron microscopies and by X-ray diffraction. The main structural evolutions consist in a shrinkage of the lamellar areas and in a precipitation of $\beta_0$ phase, which is accompanied by a moderate segregation of tungsten and a decrease of the $\alpha_2$ lamellar width. However, these evolutions are relatively limited and the microstructural stability is found to result mainly from the low diffusivity of tungsten. Conversely, a moderate effect of this ageing treatment on mechanical properties, at room and high temperatures, is measured. Such experimental results are interpreted and discussed in terms of the microstructural evolutions and of the deformation mechanisms which are activated at different temperatures under various solicitations.