A novel approach of high-voltage low-current electric energy input to synthesise cost-effective ultra-strong ductile material

Abstract

ABSTRACT Adopting a unique electrical circuit design, here we treat a significant low-cost engineering material (eutectoid steel not containing costly alloying elements) with a high-voltage (100 kV) low-current (150 mA) energy input (energy level exceeding cohesive energy). A distinctive structural evolution is ascertained with treatment duration of only 5 min as an outcome of lamellar fragmentation and matrix supersaturation. This envisages an origin of dispersed nano-sized hard cementite spheroids embedded in nano-thick martensite crystals of stratified-tile-morphology along with distributed α-ferrite regions containing sub-microscopic cementite particles of various shapes. Apart from the conjoint effect of nano-scale dispersion strengthening and martensitic strengthening overhauling the effect of conventional lamellar strengthening on a gross scale; high dislocation density and systematically arranged dislocations of similar sign at incoherent cementite particle-matrix interface provides a unique combination of ultra-high strength (UTS ∼ 1.5 GPa), significantly high specific strength (188 MPa/g cm−3) and large ductility (%Elongation = 20). Therefore, in terms of the adopted synthesis route, structural evolution and mechanical property achieved, a new dimension is hereby added to the next-generation material development so as to meet the ever increasing demand for low-cost structural application. In turn, we elucidate a fundamental conceptualization for the first time which exemplifies disproportionate atomic migration at highly incoherent nano-sized cementite particle-martensite matrix interface in steel under high-voltage low-current energy input, resulting in accumulation of dislocations of similar sign so as to significantly enhance strength along with retention of substantial ductility.