Heat‐Resistant Intermetallic Compounds and Ceramic Dispersion Alloys for Additive Manufacturing: A Review

Abstract

Many industries such as aerospace, power generation, and ground transportation demand structural materials with high specific strength at elevated temperatures. Up until now, many types of heat‐resistant materials including Ni‐based superalloys, intermetallic compounds, and dispersion‐strengthened alloys have been developed for specific applications in these industries. Moreover, with the recent development of additive manufacturing techniques, these industries can now benefit from the rapid prototyping abilities, geometric freedom, and increased mechanical properties that can be achieved through various additive manufacturing processes. With this in mind, the progress made in additive manufacturing of heat‐resistant intermetallic compounds and ceramic dispersion alloys is herein examined. A brief introduction is provided on the target industries, applications, and the compositions of heat‐resistant alloys of current research interest. Then, recent research on heat‐resistant intermetallic compounds and ceramic dispersion alloys fabricated by additive manufacturing processes such as laser powder bed fusion, laser direct energy deposition, and electron‐beam powder bed fusion are reviewed with information provided on microstructure, processing parameters, strengthening mechanisms, and mechanical properties. Finally, an outlook is provided with future research suggestions.