Hrem Investigation of the Structure of the σ5(310)/[001] Symmetric Tilt Grain Boundary In Nb.*

Abstract

ABSTRACTRecent atomistic simulations using interatomic potentials for Nb developed employing the embedded atom method (EAM) and the model generalized pseudopotential theory (MGPT) have indicated a possible cusp at the Σ5(310) orientation in the energy vs tilt angle curves for<001> symmetric tilt grain boundaries. In addition, the most stable structure predicted using EAM exhibits shifts of one crystal relative to the other along the tilt axis and along the direction perpendicular to the tilt axis lying in the boundary plane. The structure predicted using the MGPT was mirror symmetric across the plane of the grain boundary. This boundary has been prepared for experimental study using the ultra high vacuum diffusion bonding method. A segment of this boundary has been studied using high resolution electron microscopy.