Abstract
Duplex (austenite/ferrite) stainless steels are used in a variety of applications in the nuclear industry, particularly for coolant pipes, valves and pumps. These materials may become embrittled after prolonged ageing in the temperature range ∼350 - 550°C due to precipitation of G-phase, an FCC-based Ni silicide, and the formation of a Cr-rich α' phase in the ferrite. In addition to the intragranular G-phase precipitates, preferential precipitation of other phases is often observed at grain boundaries, particularly α/γ interfaces. In this examination, the precipitates formed in a Nb-containing duplex stainless steel have been identified using analytical electron microscopy.
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