In recent times, dispersion strengthening has been given prime importance by researchers to modify the microstructure and enhance the mechanical properties of tungsten alloys for their applications in strategic sectors. The present study focuses on the incorporation of Y2O3, ZrB2, and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) in W-0.7Ni-0.3Fe alloys to improve their overall characteristics. To achieve the same, the selected alloy compositions were blended, compacted, and then sintered at 1500 °C for 75 min in H2 atmosphere. It was observed that the addition of nano Y2O3 and GNP increases the sintered density of the WHAs. FESEM and EPMA analysis exhibit the uniform distribution of dispersoids in WHAs. It was noticed that the maximum compressive strength of 1985.6 MPa was obtained in 1 wt% Y2O3 incorporated W-0.7Ni-0.3Fe alloy, followed by Y2O3 + GNP, base alloy, GNP, and ZrB2 incorporated alloys. The maximum bulk hardness of ∼347 HV was obtained in the Y2O3 + GNP incorporated WHAs. Overall, the combined incorporation of Y2O3 and GNP was effective in improving the densification, microstructure and mechanical properties of sintered W-based systems.
{"title":"The effect of ZrB2, Y2O3, and/or graphene nanoplatelet incorporation on densification, microstructural evolution, and compressive deformation of W-0.7Ni-0.3Fe alloys","authors":"Deepak Adhikari , Suvam Sarthak Tripathy , Suresh Chandra Adhikari , Ashirbad Nayak , Alok Kumar Prusty , Tapas Kumar Sahoo , Mayadhar Debata , Pradyut Sengupta","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107694","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107694","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In recent times, dispersion strengthening has been given prime importance by researchers to modify the microstructure and enhance the mechanical properties of tungsten alloys for their applications in strategic sectors. The present study focuses on the incorporation of Y<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>, ZrB<sub>2</sub>, and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) in W-0.7Ni-0.3Fe alloys to improve their overall characteristics. To achieve the same, the selected alloy compositions were blended, compacted, and then sintered at 1500 °C for 75 min in H<sub>2</sub> atmosphere. It was observed that the addition of nano Y<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> and GNP increases the sintered density of the WHAs. FESEM and EPMA analysis exhibit the uniform distribution of dispersoids in WHAs. It was noticed that the maximum compressive strength of 1985.6 MPa was obtained in 1 wt% Y<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> incorporated W-0.7Ni-0.3Fe alloy, followed by Y<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> + GNP, base alloy, GNP, and ZrB<sub>2</sub> incorporated alloys. The maximum bulk hardness of ∼347 HV was obtained in the Y<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> + GNP incorporated WHAs. Overall, the combined incorporation of Y<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> and GNP was effective in improving the densification, microstructure and mechanical properties of sintered W-based systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107694"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146032954","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-22DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107691
Ruochong Wang , Yunan Fan , Zihan Yang , Weiwei He , Li Wang , Bin Liu , Yang Lu , Yong Liu
The influences of printing process on metallurgical quality and wear resistance of NiCu-diamond composites were quantitatively analyzed. The NiCu-diamond composite with low porosity (∼1.6 vol%) and low loss of diamond particles (only 0.5 vol%) was successfully fabricated, at an electron beam current of 2.4 mA, and a scanning rate of 1 m·s−1. The wear rate of the NiCu-diamond composite was as low as 5.0 × 10−7 mm3·N−1·m−1, and coefficients of friction (COFs) within 0.02–0.05. These values represent a substantial reduction compared to the corresponding values of 43.7 × 10−7 mm3·N−1·m−1 and 0.18–0.28. The dense tribofilm formed during wet friction (in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution) hinders further wear of the substrate, leading to lower COFs and wear rates than those of dry friction. The PBF-ed NiCu-diamond composites show excellent wet friction and wear properties with COFs lower than 0.04 and a wear rate of 1.6 × 10−7 mm3·N−1·m−1.
{"title":"Friction and wear behavior of NiCu-diamond composites fabricated by defect-controlled powder bed fusion (PBF) process","authors":"Ruochong Wang , Yunan Fan , Zihan Yang , Weiwei He , Li Wang , Bin Liu , Yang Lu , Yong Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107691","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107691","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The influences of printing process on metallurgical quality and wear resistance of NiCu-diamond composites were quantitatively analyzed. The NiCu-diamond composite with low porosity (∼1.6 vol%) and low loss of diamond particles (only 0.5 vol%) was successfully fabricated, at an electron beam current of 2.4 mA, and a scanning rate of 1 m·s<sup>−1</sup>. The wear rate of the NiCu-diamond composite was as low as 5.0 × 10<sup>−7</sup> mm<sup>3</sup>·N<sup>−1</sup>·m<sup>−1</sup>, and coefficients of friction (COFs) within 0.02–0.05. These values represent a substantial reduction compared to the corresponding values of 43.7 × 10<sup>−7</sup> mm<sup>3</sup>·N<sup>−1</sup>·m<sup>−1</sup> and 0.18–0.28. The dense tribofilm formed during wet friction (in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution) hinders further wear of the substrate, leading to lower COFs and wear rates than those of dry friction. The PBF-ed NiCu-diamond composites show excellent wet friction and wear properties with COFs lower than 0.04 and a wear rate of 1.6 × 10<sup>−7</sup> mm<sup>3</sup>·N<sup>−1</sup>·m<sup>−1</sup>.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107691"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146032957","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-22DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107695
José García , Andrei Chychko , Christian Gold
Cemented carbide production is heavily reliant on critical raw materials (CRMs) such as tungsten (W), cobalt (Co), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), niobium (Nb), and ruthenium (Ru), which face increasing supply risks, cost volatility, and environmental challenges. This study presents a sustainable alternative through the design of WC-based cemented carbides reinforced with finely dispersed η-phase carbides. The η-phase morphology and distribution are tailored to substitute conventional γ-phase formers (Ti, Ta, Nb), allowing the replacement of Co binder metal, and minimizing reliance on scarce elements such as Ru. The resulting microstructures exhibit enhanced high-temperature strength, hot hardness, and fracture resistance. Cutting performance tests under severe thermomechanical loading conditions confirm that the new η-phase–reinforced grades offer equivalent or superior performance compared to conventional grades. A detailed Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) analysis demonstrates significantly lower environmental impact and material criticality, establishing η-phase strengthening as a robust strategy for developing next-generation, high-performance cemented carbides with improved sustainability.
硬质合金的生产严重依赖于关键原材料，如钨(W)、钴（Co）、钛（Ti）、钽（Ta）、铌（Nb）和钌（Ru），这些原材料面临着越来越大的供应风险、成本波动和环境挑战。本研究提出了一种可持续的替代方案，即设计以分散良好的η相碳化物为增强材料的wc基硬质合金。η相的形态和分布适合于传统的γ相形成物（Ti, Ta, Nb），允许替代Co结合金属，并最大限度地减少对稀有元素（如Ru）的依赖。由此产生的显微组织表现出增强的高温强度、热硬度和抗断裂性。在严格的热机械载荷条件下的切削性能测试证实，与传统牌号相比，新的η相增强牌号具有同等或更好的性能。一项详细的产品碳足迹（PCF）分析表明，该方法显著降低了对环境的影响和材料的临界性，确立了η相强化作为开发下一代高性能硬质合金的有力策略，并提高了可持续性。
{"title":"Design of novel sustainable cemented carbides strengthened by η-phase to replace critical raw materials","authors":"José García , Andrei Chychko , Christian Gold","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107695","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107695","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Cemented carbide production is heavily reliant on critical raw materials (CRMs) such as tungsten (W), cobalt (Co), titanium (Ti), tantalum (Ta), niobium (Nb), and ruthenium (Ru), which face increasing supply risks, cost volatility, and environmental challenges. This study presents a sustainable alternative through the design of WC-based cemented carbides reinforced with finely dispersed η-phase carbides. The η-phase morphology and distribution are tailored to substitute conventional γ-phase formers (Ti, Ta, Nb), allowing the replacement of Co binder metal, and minimizing reliance on scarce elements such as Ru. The resulting microstructures exhibit enhanced high-temperature strength, hot hardness, and fracture resistance. Cutting performance tests under severe thermomechanical loading conditions confirm that the new η-phase–reinforced grades offer equivalent or superior performance compared to conventional grades. A detailed Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) analysis demonstrates significantly lower environmental impact and material criticality, establishing η-phase strengthening as a robust strategy for developing next-generation, high-performance cemented carbides with improved sustainability.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107695"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146032955","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-22DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107692
H.J. Jin , J.X. Fang , H.T. He , Y.B. Li , Z.L. Jiang , Y. Shen , X.Y. Zhou , T.T. Guo , G.Q. Yang , H. Li , M. Wen
In this work, Ti0.6Cr3TaMoSi0.06C0.1 and Ti0.6Cr3TaMoSi0.06-Ag-CaF2/BaF2 composites were fabricated via spark plasma sintering (SPS). Their microstructures were characterized, and tribological properties were evaluated at 25 °C, 350 °C, and 800 °C. The Ti0.6Cr3TaMoSi0.06C0.1 composite consists of Laves phase, BCC phase, Ta2C, and TiC, exhibiting a high microhardness of 1010 HV. In contrast, the composite containing lubricating phases is mainly composed of BCC phase, Laves phase, as well as Ag and fluoride phases, with a reduced hardness of 534 HV. Under a 10 mm-diameter Si3N4 ball counterpart, a normal load of 20 N, a sliding speed of 10 mm/s, and a test duration of 30 min, Ti0.6Cr3TaMoSi0.06C0.1 shows friction coefficient and wear rate that first increase and then decrease with temperature. The friction coefficients at room temperature, 350 °C, and 800 °C are 0.91, 1.23, and 0.81, respectively, while the corresponding wear rates are 23, 8.5, and 5.03 × 10−5 mm3/(Nm). The composite with lubricating phases exhibits lower friction coefficients across the tested temperature range (0.54, 0.58, and 0.69 at room temperature, 350 °C, and 800 °C, respectively). However, its wear rates at 350 °C and 800 °C reach 22.9 and 30.8 × 10−5 mm3/(Nm), which are significantly higher than those of Ti0.6Cr3TaMoSi0.06C0.1. The superior high-temperature wear resistance of Ti0.6Cr3TaMoSi0.06C0.1 is primarily attributed to the formation of a dense composite oxide glaze layer that effectively protects the substrate. The prepared composites exhibit excellent wear resistance over a wide temperature range, making them promising candidates for the fabrication and protection of wear-resistant components under harsh thermal conditions.
{"title":"Microstructure and tribological behavior over a wide temperature range of TiCrTaMoSi-based composites fabricated via spark plasma sintering","authors":"H.J. Jin , J.X. Fang , H.T. He , Y.B. Li , Z.L. Jiang , Y. Shen , X.Y. Zhou , T.T. Guo , G.Q. Yang , H. Li , M. Wen","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107692","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107692","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this work, Ti<sub>0.6</sub>Cr<sub>3</sub>TaMoSi<sub>0.06</sub>C<sub>0.1</sub> and Ti<sub>0.6</sub>Cr<sub>3</sub>TaMoSi<sub>0.06</sub>-Ag-CaF<sub>2</sub>/BaF<sub>2</sub> composites were fabricated via spark plasma sintering (SPS). Their microstructures were characterized, and tribological properties were evaluated at 25 °C, 350 °C, and 800 °C. The Ti<sub>0.6</sub>Cr<sub>3</sub>TaMoSi<sub>0.06</sub>C<sub>0.1</sub> composite consists of Laves phase, BCC phase, Ta<sub>2</sub>C, and TiC, exhibiting a high microhardness of 1010 HV. In contrast, the composite containing lubricating phases is mainly composed of BCC phase, Laves phase, as well as Ag and fluoride phases, with a reduced hardness of 534 HV. Under a 10 mm-diameter Si<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> ball counterpart, a normal load of 20 N, a sliding speed of 10 mm/s, and a test duration of 30 min, Ti<sub>0.6</sub>Cr<sub>3</sub>TaMoSi<sub>0.06</sub>C<sub>0.1</sub> shows friction coefficient and wear rate that first increase and then decrease with temperature. The friction coefficients at room temperature, 350 °C, and 800 °C are 0.91, 1.23, and 0.81, respectively, while the corresponding wear rates are 23, 8.5, and 5.03 × 10<sup>−5</sup> mm<sup>3</sup>/(Nm). The composite with lubricating phases exhibits lower friction coefficients across the tested temperature range (0.54, 0.58, and 0.69 at room temperature, 350 °C, and 800 °C, respectively). However, its wear rates at 350 °C and 800 °C reach 22.9 and 30.8 × 10<sup>−5</sup> mm<sup>3</sup>/(Nm), which are significantly higher than those of Ti<sub>0.6</sub>Cr<sub>3</sub>TaMoSi<sub>0.06</sub>C<sub>0.1</sub>. The superior high-temperature wear resistance of Ti<sub>0.6</sub>Cr<sub>3</sub>TaMoSi<sub>0.06</sub>C<sub>0.1</sub> is primarily attributed to the formation of a dense composite oxide glaze layer that effectively protects the substrate. The prepared composites exhibit excellent wear resistance over a wide temperature range, making them promising candidates for the fabrication and protection of wear-resistant components under harsh thermal conditions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"137 ","pages":"Article 107692"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146032956","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107685
Liang Wang , Wentao Li , Yi Rong , Anliang Ma , Lei Su , Liming Lei , Lianghui Xu , Yong He , Jianhua Yao
A uniform heating strategy based on a square flat-top laser beam was proposed to achieve high-quality laser brazing of WC-Co and TC4. Crack-free brazing joints with excellent metallurgical bonding were successfully prepared. The results showed that the joint consisted of WC-Co/TiC+WC/α-Ti + β-Ti + (Ti, Zr)2(Cu, Ni) + Ti(s,s)/Ti(s,s) + Widmanstätten/TC4. Increasing the laser energy density enhanced interfacial reactions and elemental interdiffusion, promoting further dissolution of WC and the formation of TiC, thereby thickening the WC-Co/brazing seam reaction layer. Meanwhile, the higher element diffusion rate gradually thickened the diffusion layer at the brazing seam/TC4 interface, significantly coarsening the internal Widmanstätten microstructure. The content of the (Ti, Zr)2(Cu, Ni) phase in the brazing seam decreased, resulting in a reduction in the microhardness of the brazing seam area from 474 HV1.0 to 438 HV1.0. Joint shear strength peaked at 217.2 MPa with an energy density of 3733 J/cm2, demonstrating an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease. Beyond this optimal energy density, excessive heat input induced thermal stress concentration at the WC-Co/brazing seam interface. The resultant microcracks compromised the joint integrity, leading to a reduction in strength. This study demonstrates that flat-top laser brazing provides an efficient and reliable technique for achieving high-quality joining, offering guidance for its future application to broader material systems and advanced engineering components.
{"title":"Microstructure and mechanical properties of WC-Co/TC4 joints by square flat-top laser brazing","authors":"Liang Wang , Wentao Li , Yi Rong , Anliang Ma , Lei Su , Liming Lei , Lianghui Xu , Yong He , Jianhua Yao","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107685","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107685","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>A uniform heating strategy based on a square flat-top laser beam was proposed to achieve high-quality laser brazing of WC-Co and TC4. Crack-free brazing joints with excellent metallurgical bonding were successfully prepared. The results showed that the joint consisted of WC-Co/TiC+WC/α-Ti + β-Ti + (Ti, Zr)<sub>2</sub>(Cu, Ni) + Ti(s,s)/Ti(s,s) + Widmanstätten/TC4. Increasing the laser energy density enhanced interfacial reactions and elemental interdiffusion, promoting further dissolution of WC and the formation of TiC, thereby thickening the WC-Co/brazing seam reaction layer. Meanwhile, the higher element diffusion rate gradually thickened the diffusion layer at the brazing seam/TC4 interface, significantly coarsening the internal Widmanstätten microstructure. The content of the (Ti, Zr)<sub>2</sub>(Cu, Ni) phase in the brazing seam decreased, resulting in a reduction in the microhardness of the brazing seam area from 474 HV<sub>1.0</sub> to 438 HV<sub>1.0</sub>. Joint shear strength peaked at 217.2 MPa with an energy density of 3733 J/cm<sup>2</sup>, demonstrating an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease. Beyond this optimal energy density, excessive heat input induced thermal stress concentration at the WC-Co/brazing seam interface. The resultant microcracks compromised the joint integrity, leading to a reduction in strength. This study demonstrates that flat-top laser brazing provides an efficient and reliable technique for achieving high-quality joining, offering guidance for its future application to broader material systems and advanced engineering components.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"137 ","pages":"Article 107685"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146035164","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107688
Cantong Li , Liang Liu , Jianhong Yi , Rui Bao , Caiju Li , Hongmei Zhang , Xiaofeng Chen , Zunyan Xu
Conventional methods for synthesizing copper‑tungsten (CuW) composites often struggle to achieve a balance between mechanical properties and electrical conductivity. Herein, we had reported a “nanodispersion-in-grains” strategy, which successfully realized high strength and good electrical conductivity in CuW composites via refining W particle size and tuning its spatial distribution. W particles prepared by spray pyrolysis (SP) had an average size of 7.3 nm. The nano-sized reinforcement with intragranular distribution had significantly enhanced the mechanical properties by Orowan strengthening. The intragranular W particles induced high internal stress fields within the composite, which promoted generation of high-density twinning domain. The formation of twinning effectively reduced the grain boundary and interface resistivity, while optimized the electron transport pathways, thereby enabled the composite to maintain good electrical conductivity. Notably, the Cu-3 W composite exhibited excellent overall properties, with an ultrahigh tensile strength of 705 MPa, a total elongation of 16%, a high electrical conductivity of 93% IACS, and a thermal conductivity of 367 W/m·K at room temperature. This work provided clear microstructural design guidelines for developing advanced Cu-based functional integrated materials.
{"title":"Achieving ultrahigh strength and high electrical conductivity in Cu composite reinforced with intragranular sub-10 nm W particles","authors":"Cantong Li , Liang Liu , Jianhong Yi , Rui Bao , Caiju Li , Hongmei Zhang , Xiaofeng Chen , Zunyan Xu","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107688","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107688","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Conventional methods for synthesizing copper‑tungsten (Cu<img>W) composites often struggle to achieve a balance between mechanical properties and electrical conductivity. Herein, we had reported a “nanodispersion-in-grains” strategy, which successfully realized high strength and good electrical conductivity in Cu<img>W composites via refining W particle size and tuning its spatial distribution. W particles prepared by spray pyrolysis (SP) had an average size of 7.3 nm. The nano-sized reinforcement with intragranular distribution had significantly enhanced the mechanical properties by Orowan strengthening. The intragranular W particles induced high internal stress fields within the composite, which promoted generation of high-density twinning domain. The formation of twinning effectively reduced the grain boundary and interface resistivity, while optimized the electron transport pathways, thereby enabled the composite to maintain good electrical conductivity. Notably, the Cu-3 W composite exhibited excellent overall properties, with an ultrahigh tensile strength of 705 MPa, a total elongation of 16%, a high electrical conductivity of 93% IACS, and a thermal conductivity of 367 W/m·K at room temperature. This work provided clear microstructural design guidelines for developing advanced Cu-based functional integrated materials.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"137 ","pages":"Article 107688"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146073975","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107679
Shan Wu, Yifan Li, Zhuolun Wang, Lei Guo, Ying Liu, Jinwen Ye, Na Jin
Cermets offer a promising route to meet the demands of harsh environments by combining the ductility of metals with the hardness and thermal stability of ceramics. High-entropy carbonitrides (HECNs), owing to their superior mechanical properties and phase stability, are attractive reinforcement phases. However, interfacial instability and sintering challenges often limit their performance. In this work, three HECN phases, 90 wt%Co-10 wt%(TiNbTa)(C,N) named Co-MECN, 90 wt% Co-10 wt%(TiZrNbTa)(C,N) named Co-4HECN, and 90 wt%Co-10 wt%(TiZrNbMoTa)(C,N) named Co-5HECN, with progressively increasing configurational entropy were incorporated into Co-matrix composites via solid-state sintering. The influence of entropy on diffusion behavior and mechanical response was systematically evaluated. Mo exhibited the highest diffusivity in the Co matrix, followed by Ti, Zr, Nb, and Ta, and this diffusion inhomogeneity induced local stress concentrations that weakened interfacial bonding. The Co-MECN composite achieved the best performance, with a transverse rupture strength of 1.75 GPa and a hardness of 326 kgf/mm2, while higher entropy levels led to performance degradation due to increased phase stability hindering densification and promoting pore formation. These findings clarify the dual role of entropy in regulating diffusion and consolidation, providing a guidance for the rational design of next-generation high-entropy cermet systems.
{"title":"Entropy-driven elemental diffusion and microstructural evolution in Co-based composites reinforced with high-entropy carbonitrides","authors":"Shan Wu, Yifan Li, Zhuolun Wang, Lei Guo, Ying Liu, Jinwen Ye, Na Jin","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107679","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107679","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Cermets offer a promising route to meet the demands of harsh environments by combining the ductility of metals with the hardness and thermal stability of ceramics. High-entropy carbonitrides (HECNs), owing to their superior mechanical properties and phase stability, are attractive reinforcement phases. However, interfacial instability and sintering challenges often limit their performance. In this work, three HECN phases, 90 wt%Co-10 wt%(TiNbTa)(C,N) named Co-MECN, 90 wt% Co-10 wt%(TiZrNbTa)(C,N) named Co-4HECN, and 90 wt%Co-10 wt%(TiZrNbMoTa)(C,N) named Co-5HECN, with progressively increasing configurational entropy were incorporated into Co-matrix composites via solid-state sintering. The influence of entropy on diffusion behavior and mechanical response was systematically evaluated. Mo exhibited the highest diffusivity in the Co matrix, followed by Ti, Zr, Nb, and Ta, and this diffusion inhomogeneity induced local stress concentrations that weakened interfacial bonding. The Co-MECN composite achieved the best performance, with a transverse rupture strength of 1.75 GPa and a hardness of 326 kgf/mm<sup>2</sup>, while higher entropy levels led to performance degradation due to increased phase stability hindering densification and promoting pore formation. These findings clarify the dual role of entropy in regulating diffusion and consolidation, providing a guidance for the rational design of next-generation high-entropy cermet systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"137 ","pages":"Article 107679"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146014785","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Zirconium (Zr) shows great promise for next-generation orthopedic implants due to its excellent biocompatibility, low elastic modulus, and low magnetic susceptibility. However, it is clinically constrained by high production costs and insufficient yield strength. Herein, a novel “impurity utilization + microalloying” strategy is proposed to optimize mechanical properties and reduce costs of Zr-based alloys while preserving biocompatibility and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatibility. By leveraging the β-stabilizing effect of inherent impurities (Hf, Fe) in sponge zirconium (SZr) and atomic mobility inhibition by microalloying elements (Fe, Si, Mg), the brittle ω phase is suppressed in SZr-xNb-0.2 Mg-0.15Fe-0.1Si (SZNx) alloys, promoting formation of the intermediate β' phase (from β → ω transformation). Ultrafine/nanoscale β' plates induce precipitation and boundary strengthening, synergizing with solid solution strengthening from impurities and microalloying elements to enhance strength while maintaining low Young's modulus and good ductility. Consequently, SZNx alloys outperform ZrNb alloys fabricated from high-purity Zr (NZr) or unalloyed SZr in strength. Notably, the Zr-15Nb-0.25 Mg-0.15Fe-0.1Si (SZN15) alloy exhibits exceptional comprehensive properties: Young's modulus (E) = 58 ± 3 GPa, yield strength (YS) = 750 ± 18 MPa, elongation (EL) = 15.5 ± 1.6%. In vitro biocompatibility assessments show SZN15 cell viability exceeds 92% over all test periods, comparable to or better than clinically used Ti–6Al–4 V (TC4) and NZr. The mass magnetic susceptibility of SZNx alloys (1.27–1.90 × 10−6 cm3/g) is ∼50% that of TC4, ensuring excellent MRI compatibility. Most importantly, the cost of SZNx alloys is reduced by over 80% versus NZr-based alloys. This work offers an efficient, cost-effective strategy for developing low-cost, high-performance Zr-based orthopedic alloys, addressing the strength-modulus-ductility trade-off and cost barriers limiting clinical translation. .
{"title":"Optimization of mechanical properties and cost-reduction of potential orthopedic Zr alloys maintaining favorable biocompatibility through impurity utilization and microalloying","authors":"X.K. Liu , Z.C. Yin , S.X. Liang, Z.K. Zhou, Z.Y. Yuan, B.Y. Liu, Y.X. Guo, S.Z. Zhang, J.S. Zhang, X.Y. Zhang, R.P. Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107687","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107687","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Zirconium (Zr) shows great promise for next-generation orthopedic implants due to its excellent biocompatibility, low elastic modulus, and low magnetic susceptibility. However, it is clinically constrained by high production costs and insufficient yield strength. Herein, a novel “impurity utilization + microalloying” strategy is proposed to optimize mechanical properties and reduce costs of Zr-based alloys while preserving biocompatibility and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatibility. By leveraging the β-stabilizing effect of inherent impurities (Hf, Fe) in sponge zirconium (SZr) and atomic mobility inhibition by microalloying elements (Fe, Si, Mg), the brittle ω phase is suppressed in SZr-xNb-0.2 Mg-0.15Fe-0.1Si (SZNx) alloys, promoting formation of the intermediate β' phase (from β → ω transformation). Ultrafine/nanoscale β' plates induce precipitation and boundary strengthening, synergizing with solid solution strengthening from impurities and microalloying elements to enhance strength while maintaining low Young's modulus and good ductility. Consequently, SZNx alloys outperform Zr<img>Nb alloys fabricated from high-purity Zr (NZr) or unalloyed SZr in strength. Notably, the Zr-15Nb-0.25 Mg-0.15Fe-0.1Si (SZN15) alloy exhibits exceptional comprehensive properties: Young's modulus (E) = 58 ± 3 GPa, yield strength (YS) = 750 ± 18 MPa, elongation (EL) = 15.5 ± 1.6%. In vitro biocompatibility assessments show SZN15 cell viability exceeds 92% over all test periods, comparable to or better than clinically used Ti–6Al–4 V (TC4) and NZr. The mass magnetic susceptibility of SZNx alloys (1.27–1.90 × 10<sup>−6</sup> cm<sup>3</sup>/g) is ∼50% that of TC4, ensuring excellent MRI compatibility. Most importantly, the cost of SZNx alloys is reduced by over 80% versus NZr-based alloys. This work offers an efficient, cost-effective strategy for developing low-cost, high-performance Zr-based orthopedic alloys, addressing the strength-modulus-ductility trade-off and cost barriers limiting clinical translation.<!--> <!-->.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"138 ","pages":"Article 107687"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146057556","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107686
C. Robertson , D. Terentyev , E. Gaganidze , C. Chang
This paper presents a radiation embrittlement model applicable to polycrystalline BCC tungsten, in the context of fusion reactor technology. BCC tungsten fracture response is temperature and dose-dependent, due to critical sub-grain plasticity mechanisms and their interaction with brittle fracture initiators. Mesoscale plasticity effects are treated using a comprehensive, close-form analytical expression, accounting for thermally activated slip and cross-slip influences. In practice, the number of slip bands generated in all the grains of a macroscopic grain aggregate is calculated first, for a given plastic strain increment. The results associated with different temperature and dose conditions are then side-by-side compared with corresponding experimental fracture toughness data up to 1100 °C. To demonstrate the predictive model capability, we successfully apply our methodology to the case of tungsten irradiated by neutrons up to 1 dpa. The proposed approach to predict the embrittlement does not use any data adjustment, is based on the SEM-EBDS microstructure of the investigated material, possesses distinctive predictive capacities and is directly applicable in support of advanced design rules to ensure safety during nuclear operation of fusion reactors.
{"title":"Dose-dependent irradiation embrittlement in tungsten: A predictive model based on grain plasticity mechanisms","authors":"C. Robertson , D. Terentyev , E. Gaganidze , C. Chang","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107686","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107686","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This paper presents a radiation embrittlement model applicable to polycrystalline BCC tungsten, in the context of fusion reactor technology. BCC tungsten fracture response is temperature and dose-dependent, due to critical sub-grain plasticity mechanisms and their interaction with brittle fracture initiators. Mesoscale plasticity effects are treated using a comprehensive, close-form analytical expression, accounting for thermally activated slip and cross-slip influences. In practice, the number of slip bands generated in all the grains of a macroscopic grain aggregate is calculated first, for a given plastic strain increment. The results associated with different temperature and dose conditions are then side-by-side compared with corresponding experimental fracture toughness data up to 1100 °C. To demonstrate the predictive model capability, we successfully apply our methodology to the case of tungsten irradiated by neutrons up to 1 dpa. The proposed approach to predict the embrittlement does not use any data adjustment, is based on the SEM-EBDS microstructure of the investigated material, possesses distinctive predictive capacities and is directly applicable in support of advanced design rules to ensure safety during nuclear operation of fusion reactors.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"137 ","pages":"Article 107686"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146035165","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-19DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107684
Jiahao Huang , Huanan Wei , Tie Han , Zhikai Zhang , Zhenhua Yu , Mingbo Zhang , Chun Cheng , Xu Wang , Yuxuan Zheng
This study systematically investigates the effects of W and V additions on the phase composition, microstructure, mechanical properties, and fracture-induced ignition behavior of TiZrNb-based high-entropy alloys under quasi-static and dynamic loading. Under dynamic loading (∼3000 s−1), the TiZrNbW alloy exhibits the highest yield strength (2298 MPa) but limited fracture strain (∼11%). In contrast, the TiZrNbV alloy shows superior ductility (fracture strain ∼26%) with a yield strength of 1551 MPa. The co-addition of W and V achieves a balanced strength–toughness profile under high strain-rate conditions, as demonstrated by the TiZrNbWV alloy with a yield strength of 1911 MPa and fracture strain of 12.9–16.7%. Energy-release intensity correlates directly with fragmentation degree: the more brittle TiZrNbW undergoes severe fragmentation and releases the most intense energy. XPS and EDS analyses confirm that oxidation reactions (forming TiO2, ZrO2, Nb2O5, V2O5, WO2, and WO3) constitute the core ignition mechanism. Quantitative XPS analysis reveals that the TiZrNbW alloy undergoes a more extensive oxidation process, with the sum of oxidation proportions for its constituent elements reaching 249%, compared to 223% for the TiZrNbV alloy. This higher overall oxidation degree correlates directly with its more intense energy release. No ignition occurs in oxygen-free environments, underscoring the essential role of oxidation in fracture-induced energy release.
{"title":"The influence of W and V elements on the mechanical properties and fracture ignition behavior of TiZrNb-based high-entropy alloys","authors":"Jiahao Huang , Huanan Wei , Tie Han , Zhikai Zhang , Zhenhua Yu , Mingbo Zhang , Chun Cheng , Xu Wang , Yuxuan Zheng","doi":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107684","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2026.107684","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study systematically investigates the effects of W and V additions on the phase composition, microstructure, mechanical properties, and fracture-induced ignition behavior of TiZrNb-based high-entropy alloys under quasi-static and dynamic loading. Under dynamic loading (∼3000 s<sup>−1</sup>), the TiZrNbW alloy exhibits the highest yield strength (2298 MPa) but limited fracture strain (∼11%). In contrast, the TiZrNbV alloy shows superior ductility (fracture strain ∼26%) with a yield strength of 1551 MPa. The co-addition of W and V achieves a balanced strength–toughness profile under high strain-rate conditions, as demonstrated by the TiZrNbWV alloy with a yield strength of 1911 MPa and fracture strain of 12.9–16.7%. Energy-release intensity correlates directly with fragmentation degree: the more brittle TiZrNbW undergoes severe fragmentation and releases the most intense energy. XPS and EDS analyses confirm that oxidation reactions (forming TiO<sub>2</sub>, ZrO<sub>2</sub>, Nb<sub>2</sub>O<sub>5</sub>, V<sub>2</sub>O<sub>5</sub>, WO<sub>2</sub>, and WO<sub>3</sub>) constitute the core ignition mechanism. Quantitative XPS analysis reveals that the TiZrNbW alloy undergoes a more extensive oxidation process, with the sum of oxidation proportions for its constituent elements reaching 249%, compared to 223% for the TiZrNbV alloy. This higher overall oxidation degree correlates directly with its more intense energy release. No ignition occurs in oxygen-free environments, underscoring the essential role of oxidation in fracture-induced energy release.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":14216,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Refractory Metals & Hard Materials","volume":"137 ","pages":"Article 107684"},"PeriodicalIF":4.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146000676","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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