Microstructural study of the NbC to G-phase transformation in HP-Nb alloys

Abstract

The microstructure of a centrifugally cast HP alloy was studied in its as-received state and after ageing at 900 °C. A multi-scale approach combining X Ray Diffraction (XRD), advanced electron microscopy modes (scanning and transmission electron microscopies (SEM, TEM), together with focused ion beam/SEM nanotomography (FIB-nt)) has been carried out to characterize the evolution of niobium carbides during ageing. After thermal treatment, the carbides exhibit a complex microstructure, consisting of a core of untransformed NbC, an intermediate layer of G-phase (Ni16Nb6Si7) with embedded nanometric titanium carbide precipitates, and an outer shell of alternating chromium carbides Cr23C6 and G-phase. A simple diffusion model was used to explain the faster external growth of G-phase compared to the internal NbC dissolution, and to determine a diffusion coefficient of niobium in the G-phase at 900 °C.