Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2026-02-03DOI: 10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109179
Xiaolong Peng , Timing Zhang , Yi Xiong , Yunfa Deng , Zhikang Ye , Yuhua Chen , Jiaming Ni , Yang Shen , Shiyi Zhang , Jilin Xie
This study constructs an interface model based on electronic theory, identifying three distinct interlayers: Ni, Nb, and Cu. Research indicates that the NiTi/Cu interface exhibits the highest binding energy and work of separation, with increased electron density forming strong metallic bonds. It is hypothesized that joints containing Cu will demonstrate superior mechanical properties. Using resistance spot welding (RSW) technology, the addition of interlayers enables the joining of dissimilar metals NiTi and TC4. The study indicates that the interlayers promote melt nucleus growth and influence its morphology. The melt nucleus in Ni-containing joints exhibits an “M”-shaped morphology, while those in Cu- or Nb-containing joints are elliptical. Research reveals the presence of Intermetallic compounds (IMCs) between the direct weld and Ni-containing joints, which are the primary factor affecting joint strength. Joint mechanical properties initially increased then decreased with rising welding current. At I = 7 kA, the Cu-containing joint achieved maximum mechanical properties, fracture energy, and fusion diameter: tensile load 7.28 kN, fracture energy 6.62 J, and fusion diameter 3556 μm. No significant stress concentration was observed, consistent with simulation results. All joints exhibited interfacial failure. The fracture mode for the Cu-containing joint was ductile fracture; the Nb-containing joint showed a mixed ductile-brittle fracture; while the direct weld and Ni-containing joints exhibited brittle fracture.
{"title":"Effect of interlayer on microstructure and mechanical properties of NiTi/TC4 dissimilar metal resistance spot welded joints","authors":"Xiaolong Peng , Timing Zhang , Yi Xiong , Yunfa Deng , Zhikang Ye , Yuhua Chen , Jiaming Ni , Yang Shen , Shiyi Zhang , Jilin Xie","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109179","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109179","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study constructs an interface model based on electronic theory, identifying three distinct interlayers: Ni, Nb, and Cu. Research indicates that the NiTi/Cu interface exhibits the highest binding energy and work of separation, with increased electron density forming strong metallic bonds. It is hypothesized that joints containing Cu will demonstrate superior mechanical properties. Using resistance spot welding (RSW) technology, the addition of interlayers enables the joining of dissimilar metals NiTi and TC4. The study indicates that the interlayers promote melt nucleus growth and influence its morphology. The melt nucleus in Ni-containing joints exhibits an “M”-shaped morphology, while those in Cu- or Nb-containing joints are elliptical. Research reveals the presence of Intermetallic compounds (IMCs) between the direct weld and Ni-containing joints, which are the primary factor affecting joint strength. Joint mechanical properties initially increased then decreased with rising welding current. At I = 7 kA, the Cu-containing joint achieved maximum mechanical properties, fracture energy, and fusion diameter: tensile load 7.28 kN, fracture energy 6.62 J, and fusion diameter 3556 μm. No significant stress concentration was observed, consistent with simulation results. All joints exhibited interfacial failure. The fracture mode for the Cu-containing joint was ductile fracture; the Nb-containing joint showed a mixed ductile-brittle fracture; while the direct weld and Ni-containing joints exhibited brittle fracture.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109179"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146185336","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}
This study systematically investigates the effects of prolonged isothermal annealing (up to 400 h) at medium (700 °C) and high (1000 °C) temperatures on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of an as-cast AlCrFeNi3 eutectic medium-entropy alloy (EMEA). The results revealed that the lamellar structure becomes unstable at 1000 °C, leading to the fragmentation and spheroidization of the B2 phase, accompanied by the formation of fine spherical B2 precipitates due to Al enrichment. In contrast, the lamellar structure remains largely stable at 700 °C, with only discontinuous coarsening observed at some eutectic cell boundaries after extended holding. The nanoscale L12 precipitates within the FCC phase coarsen into elongated shapes at 700 °C, while they refine at 1000 °C. Concurrently, the Cr-rich BCC precipitates within the B2 phase dissolve at 1000 °C but continue to grow at 700 °C. Notably, significant Cr segregation at the B2/FCC phase interfaces at 700 °C leads to the formation of irregular, coarse Cr-rich BCC precipitates, which are considerably larger than those in the interior of the B2 phase. The microstructural changes directly govern the mechanical properties. Annealing at 1000 °C enhances ductility at the expense of a slight reduction in strength. Conversely, treatment at 700 °C significantly increases yield strength but sacrifices ductility. A two-step annealing process (1000 °C/100 h followed by 700 °C/100 h) effectively enhances the strength with only a marginal decrease in ductility.
{"title":"Phase stability and coarsening mechanism in AlCrFeNi3 eutectic medium-entropy alloy during prolonged isothermal annealing","authors":"Yong Dong , Wenxuan Li , Shougang Duan , Huiting Zheng","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109199","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109199","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study systematically investigates the effects of prolonged isothermal annealing (up to 400 h) at medium (700 °C) and high (1000 °C) temperatures on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of an as-cast AlCrFeNi<sub>3</sub> eutectic medium-entropy alloy (EMEA). The results revealed that the lamellar structure becomes unstable at 1000 °C, leading to the fragmentation and spheroidization of the B2 phase, accompanied by the formation of fine spherical B2 precipitates due to Al enrichment. In contrast, the lamellar structure remains largely stable at 700 °C, with only discontinuous coarsening observed at some eutectic cell boundaries after extended holding. The nanoscale L1<sub>2</sub> precipitates within the FCC phase coarsen into elongated shapes at 700 °C, while they refine at 1000 °C. Concurrently, the Cr-rich BCC precipitates within the B2 phase dissolve at 1000 °C but continue to grow at 700 °C. Notably, significant Cr segregation at the B2/FCC phase interfaces at 700 °C leads to the formation of irregular, coarse Cr-rich BCC precipitates, which are considerably larger than those in the interior of the B2 phase. The microstructural changes directly govern the mechanical properties. Annealing at 1000 °C enhances ductility at the expense of a slight reduction in strength. Conversely, treatment at 700 °C significantly increases yield strength but sacrifices ductility. A two-step annealing process (1000 °C/100 h followed by 700 °C/100 h) effectively enhances the strength with only a marginal decrease in ductility.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109199"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146185331","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 : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2026-02-09DOI: 10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109198
Chaolin Zhang , Qiang Li , Xueru Fan , Chuanming Sun , Zhenduo Wu , Lei Xie , Chuntao Chang
The influence of Si content on the glass-forming ability (GFA), soft magnetic properties, and mechanical behavior of Fe77SixB13-xP7Nb2Cr1 (x = 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) amorphous alloys was systematically investigated. Pair distribution function (PDF) analysis revealed that moderate Si substitution (x = 2–4) enhances atomic-scale disorder and suppresses short-range order, thereby optimizing atomic packing frustration and improving both GFA and soft magnetic performance. In contrast, excessive Si (x ≥ 6) induces Fe–Si clustering and partial medium-range ordering, reducing structural homogeneity and deteriorating GFA. Consequently, the Fe77Si4B9P7Nb2Cr1 amorphous alloy exhibits the best comprehensive properties, with a critical diameter of 1.5 mm, a high saturation flux density (Bs) of 1.38 T, a low coercivity (Hc) of 1.3 A/m, and an effective permeability (μe) of 8000 at 1 kHz after annealing at 450 °C for 10 min. This alloy also shows excellent mechanical performance, with a yield strength of 3489 MPa and compressive plasticity of 1.7%. Moreover, this alloy demonstrates excellent corrosion resistance, with a self-corrosion potential (Ecorr) of - 0.48 V and a self-corrosion current density of 1.04 × 10−5 A cm−2 in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis showed that Si promotes the formation of a compact, multilayered passive film enriched in Fe2O3, Cr2O3, Nb2O5, and SiO2 which significantly improves corrosion resistance by inhibiting active dissolution and enhancing film stability. Overall, the Fe77Si4B9P7Nb2Cr1 amorphous alloy demonstrates a superior combination of high GFA, enhanced magnetic and mechanical properties, and outstanding corrosion resistance, making it a promising candidate for advanced soft magnetic applications in harsh environments.
{"title":"Effects of Si Addition on the glass forming ability and properties of FeBPNbCr amorphous alloys","authors":"Chaolin Zhang , Qiang Li , Xueru Fan , Chuanming Sun , Zhenduo Wu , Lei Xie , Chuntao Chang","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109198","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109198","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The influence of Si content on the glass-forming ability (GFA), soft magnetic properties, and mechanical behavior of Fe<sub>77</sub>Si<sub>x</sub>B<sub>13-x</sub>P<sub>7</sub>Nb<sub>2</sub>Cr<sub>1</sub> (x = 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) amorphous alloys was systematically investigated. Pair distribution function (PDF) analysis revealed that moderate Si substitution (x = 2–4) enhances atomic-scale disorder and suppresses short-range order, thereby optimizing atomic packing frustration and improving both GFA and soft magnetic performance. In contrast, excessive Si (x ≥ 6) induces Fe–Si clustering and partial medium-range ordering, reducing structural homogeneity and deteriorating GFA. Consequently, the Fe<sub>77</sub>Si<sub>4</sub>B<sub>9</sub>P<sub>7</sub>Nb<sub>2</sub>Cr<sub>1</sub> amorphous alloy exhibits the best comprehensive properties, with a critical diameter of 1.5 mm, a high saturation flux density (<em>B</em><sub>s</sub>) of 1.38 T, a low coercivity (<em>H</em><sub>c</sub>) of 1.3 A/m, and an effective permeability (<em>μ</em><sub>e</sub>) of 8000 at 1 kHz after annealing at 450 °C for 10 min. This alloy also shows excellent mechanical performance, with a yield strength of 3489 MPa and compressive plasticity of 1.7%. Moreover, this alloy demonstrates excellent corrosion resistance, with a self-corrosion potential (<em>E</em><sub>corr</sub>) of - 0.48 V and a self-corrosion current density of 1.04 × 10<sup>−5</sup> A cm<sup>−2</sup> in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis showed that Si promotes the formation of a compact, multilayered passive film enriched in Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>, Cr<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>, Nb<sub>2</sub>O<sub>5</sub>, and SiO<sub>2</sub> which significantly improves corrosion resistance by inhibiting active dissolution and enhancing film stability. Overall, the Fe<sub>77</sub>Si<sub>4</sub>B<sub>9</sub>P<sub>7</sub>Nb<sub>2</sub>Cr<sub>1</sub> amorphous alloy demonstrates a superior combination of high GFA, enhanced magnetic and mechanical properties, and outstanding corrosion resistance, making it a promising candidate for advanced soft magnetic applications in harsh environments.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109198"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146185413","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 : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2026-02-11DOI: 10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109194
L.X. Chen , J. Xu , Tao Yang , Y.H. Li , Y. Cai , X.F. Wang , L. Lu , S.N. Luo
In order to investigate microstructure evolution after severe plastic deformation and calibrate the constitutive model, Taylor impact experiments are conducted on the metastable dual-phase high-entropy alloy (HEA) . Two kinds of HEA projectiles (short-cylinder: diameter 6 mm, length 6 mm or long-cylinder: diameter 12 mm, length 40 mm) are launched. Parameters of the Johnson-Cook Cowper–Symonds constitutive model are optimized via the long-cylinder Taylor impact experiments. After cylinder Taylor impact tests, deformation microstructures at different regions are characterized, and finite element modelings (FEMs) based on the modified constitutive model are conducted to interpret deformation mechanisms. The face-centered cubic (FCC) to hexagonal close-packed (HCP) phase transformation is predominant. The distribution of the equivalent plastic strain obtained from the FEM analysis indicates pronounced deformation gradient along the impact direction, consistent with the gradient microstructure of the postmortem sample. The higher equivalent plastic strain promotes more intense phase transformation and leads to higher grain boundary densities in both phases. Moreover, at high impact velocity, the reverse HCP to FCC phase transformation and deformation twinning at the impact surface is activated, primarily due to the increase in stacking fault energy caused by impact temperature rise.
为了研究剧烈塑性变形后的微观组织演变规律,并对HEA合金Fe50Mn30Co10Cr10进行了Taylor冲击试验。发射两种HEA弹(短筒:直径6毫米,长6毫米或长筒:直径12毫米,长40毫米)。通过长圆柱Taylor冲击实验,对Johnson-Cook cooper - symonds本构模型参数进行了优化。在Taylor冲击试验后,对不同区域的变形组织进行了表征,并基于改进的本构模型进行了有限元建模,对变形机理进行了解释。以面心立方(FCC)到六方密堆积(HCP)相变为主。有限元分析得到的等效塑性应变分布表明,沿冲击方向有明显的变形梯度,与死后试样的梯度显微结构相一致。等效塑性应变越高,相变越剧烈,两相的晶界密度越高。在高冲击速度下,激活了冲击面反向HCP到FCC相变和{111}< 112 >变形孪晶,这主要是由于冲击温升导致层错能增加。
{"title":"Microstructure evolution of metastable dual-phase high-entropy alloy Fe50Mn30Co10Cr10 under Taylor impact tests: Experiments and constitutive modeling","authors":"L.X. Chen , J. Xu , Tao Yang , Y.H. Li , Y. Cai , X.F. Wang , L. Lu , S.N. Luo","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109194","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109194","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In order to investigate microstructure evolution after severe plastic deformation and calibrate the constitutive model, Taylor impact experiments are conducted on the metastable dual-phase high-entropy alloy (HEA) <span><math><mrow><msub><mrow><mi>Fe</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>50</mn></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mi>Mn</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>30</mn></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mi>Co</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>10</mn></mrow></msub><msub><mrow><mi>Cr</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>10</mn></mrow></msub></mrow></math></span>. Two kinds of HEA projectiles (short-cylinder: diameter 6 mm, length 6 mm or long-cylinder: diameter 12 mm, length 40 mm) are launched. Parameters of the Johnson-Cook Cowper–Symonds constitutive model are optimized via the long-cylinder Taylor impact experiments. After cylinder Taylor impact tests, deformation microstructures at different regions are characterized, and finite element modelings (FEMs) based on the modified constitutive model are conducted to interpret deformation mechanisms. The face-centered cubic (FCC) to hexagonal close-packed (HCP) phase transformation is predominant. The distribution of the equivalent plastic strain obtained from the FEM analysis indicates pronounced deformation gradient along the impact direction, consistent with the gradient microstructure of the postmortem sample. The higher equivalent plastic strain promotes more intense phase transformation and leads to higher grain boundary densities in both phases. Moreover, at high impact velocity, the reverse HCP to FCC phase transformation and <span><math><mrow><mrow><mo>{</mo><mn>111</mn><mo>}</mo></mrow><mrow><mo>〈</mo><mn>112</mn><mo>〉</mo></mrow></mrow></math></span> deformation twinning at the impact surface is activated, primarily due to the increase in stacking fault energy caused by impact temperature rise.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109194"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146185409","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 : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2026-02-09DOI: 10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109197
Yaqian Yang , Yunfei Wang , Yunlong Li, Tangfeng Feng, Faxiang Qin
The microstructural and magnetic transport properties of amorphous materials can be modified by laser-induced thermal input. Although laser cutting of amorphous ribbons has been previously reported, existing studies mainly focus on morphology, phase evolution, or static magnetic properties, and lack a systematic understanding of how thermal input regulates magnetoimpedance-related responses and their underlying mechanisms. We establish a direct causal link between side-selective laser thermal input, microstructural evolution, and the magnetoimpedance (MI) and stress-impedance (SI) behavior of Co67.5Fe4Mo3.5Si14B9Cu2 ribbons. By independently varying the irradiation side and scanning speed, the distinct effects of oxidation and residual stress relaxation near the ribbon edge are decoupled. Laser irradiation from the contact side (R-CS) facilitates stress relaxation and partial structural recovery, enhancing magnetic softness and yielding a maximum MI ratio of 437.7 %. In contrast, irradiation from the free surface (R-FS) induces excessive oxidation and magnetic discontinuity, significantly suppressing impedance sensitivity. The optimized contact-side-irradiated sample (R-CS-25) exhibits a high strain sensitivity (∼27.1) and a wide linear sensing range (∼4000 με). Mechanistically, tensile strain modulates the effective anisotropy field through magnetoelastic coupling, shifting the natural ferromagnetic resonance and enabling bias-free stress sensing. These results provide insights into the thermal-input-controlled tuning of magnetoelastic responses of Co-based amorphous ribbon and suggest a potential approach for designing high-performance MI and bias-free magnetoelastic sensors.
{"title":"Effects of laser thermal input on the magneto-impedance and stress-impedance behavior of Co-based amorphous ribbons","authors":"Yaqian Yang , Yunfei Wang , Yunlong Li, Tangfeng Feng, Faxiang Qin","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109197","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109197","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The microstructural and magnetic transport properties of amorphous materials can be modified by laser-induced thermal input. Although laser cutting of amorphous ribbons has been previously reported, existing studies mainly focus on morphology, phase evolution, or static magnetic properties, and lack a systematic understanding of how thermal input regulates magnetoimpedance-related responses and their underlying mechanisms. We establish a direct causal link between side-selective laser thermal input, microstructural evolution, and the magnetoimpedance (MI) and stress-impedance (SI) behavior of Co<sub>67.5</sub>Fe<sub>4</sub>Mo<sub>3.5</sub>Si<sub>14</sub>B<sub>9</sub>Cu<sub>2</sub> ribbons. By independently varying the irradiation side and scanning speed, the distinct effects of oxidation and residual stress relaxation near the ribbon edge are decoupled. Laser irradiation from the contact side (R-CS) facilitates stress relaxation and partial structural recovery, enhancing magnetic softness and yielding a maximum MI ratio of 437.7 %. In contrast, irradiation from the free surface (R-FS) induces excessive oxidation and magnetic discontinuity, significantly suppressing impedance sensitivity. The optimized contact-side-irradiated sample (R-CS-25) exhibits a high strain sensitivity (∼27.1) and a wide linear sensing range (∼4000 με). Mechanistically, tensile strain modulates the effective anisotropy field through magnetoelastic coupling, shifting the natural ferromagnetic resonance and enabling bias-free stress sensing. These results provide insights into the thermal-input-controlled tuning of magnetoelastic responses of Co-based amorphous ribbon and suggest a potential approach for designing high-performance MI and bias-free magnetoelastic sensors.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109197"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146185329","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 : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2026-02-11DOI: 10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109207
Shiwen Hu , Pengjie Wei , Zefeng Chen , Wenxu Wang , Xinquan Shang , Dexue Liu
In recent years, Ti-based high- and medium-entropy alloys (H/MEAs) have attracted considerable attention as orthopedic implant materials due to their high strength and excellent biocompatibility. In this study, the phase stability and mechanical properties of (TiZr)100-xTax (x = 10, 7, and 5, in molar ratio) MEAs, hereafter referred to as Ta5, Ta7, and Ta10 alloys, were investigated. The results show that as the Ta content decreases, the phase composition changes from β+α'' phase of Ta10 to α'' +α'+β phase of Ta7, and finally to α'+α''+β phase of Ta5, among which the phase with higher content is in the front. Driven by phase transformation activation and the regulation of the primary microstructure, the alloy strength decreased from 501 MPa to 399 MPa, then rebounded to 449 MPa. The elastic modulus of the alloy ranged from 53 to 65 GPa, significantly lower than that of Ti6Al4V, and was mainly regulated by phase composition and content. With increasing tensile strain, the β phase in the alloy underwent a martensitic transformation, β→α''. Simultaneously, some α′ phases gradually transformed into α'' phases. Both fractured Ta5 and Ta7 alloys possessed an α'' matrix and were rich in α′ shear bands. In particular, the Ta10 alloy exhibited a uniform and random distribution of the α′ phase within its α'' matrix. Furthermore, this matrix was also rich in α′ and β shear bands.
{"title":"Phase stability and mechanical properties of novel metastable Ti-Zr-Ta medium entropy alloys with low elastic modulus for biomedical applications","authors":"Shiwen Hu , Pengjie Wei , Zefeng Chen , Wenxu Wang , Xinquan Shang , Dexue Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109207","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109207","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In recent years, Ti-based high- and medium-entropy alloys (H/MEAs) have attracted considerable attention as orthopedic implant materials due to their high strength and excellent biocompatibility. In this study, the phase stability and mechanical properties of (TiZr)<sub>100-x</sub>Ta<sub>x</sub> (x = 10, 7, and 5, in molar ratio) MEAs, hereafter referred to as Ta5, Ta7, and Ta10 alloys, were investigated. The results show that as the Ta content decreases, the phase composition changes from β+α'' phase of Ta10 to α'' +α'+β phase of Ta7, and finally to α'+α''+β phase of Ta5, among which the phase with higher content is in the front. Driven by phase transformation activation and the regulation of the primary microstructure, the alloy strength decreased from 501 MPa to 399 MPa, then rebounded to 449 MPa. The elastic modulus of the alloy ranged from 53 to 65 GPa, significantly lower than that of Ti6Al4V, and was mainly regulated by phase composition and content. With increasing tensile strain, the β phase in the alloy underwent a martensitic transformation, β→α''. Simultaneously, some α′ phases gradually transformed into α'' phases. Both fractured Ta5 and Ta7 alloys possessed an α'' matrix and were rich in α′ shear bands. In particular, the Ta10 alloy exhibited a uniform and random distribution of the α′ phase within its α'' matrix. Furthermore, this matrix was also rich in α′ and β shear bands.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109207"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146185328","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 : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2026-02-05DOI: 10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109192
Qiang Huang , Yanhua Chen , Shuyan Zhang , Xingxing Bai , Min Shi , Jiankang Ye , Miaomiao Lv , Yiran Zhang
In this study, induction melting combined with J-quenching technique was used to prepare (Co0.63Ta0.1B0.25Si0.02)100-xCux (x = 0–0.9 at.%) Co-based bulk metallic glasses were systematically probed for the effects of trace Cu doping on the modulation of its mechanical properties and deformation mechanism. The results show that when the Cu content is 0.3–0.5 at.%, the comprehensive properties of the alloys are significantly enhanced. The material obtains optimal plastic deformation capacity at x = 0.5, with a compressive fracture strength of 5500 MPa and an increase in plastic strain up to 5.5 %. Meanwhile, the critical diameter (Dc) can reach 2 mm for Cu0.5 sample, and the supercooled liquid region (ΔTx) broadens to the maximum value of 46.9 K, suggesting the glass formation ability (GFA) is properly enhanced with the minor addition of Cu. Microscopic mechanism studies show that the positive mixing enthalpy of Cu - Co atoms induces the formation of short-range ordered nanoclusters at 1–2 nm scale (cluster density reaches 18 % at x = 0.5), which contributes to the free volume distribution and the multiplicity of high-density shear bands to proliferate. Serrated flow behavior analysis reveals that Cu doping decreases the critical shear band velocity (CSBV) to 5.09 × 10−6 m/s, and statistical analysis of the sawtooth stress drop transformed from Gaussian to power law distribution, indicating the enhancement of shear band interactions and the deceleration of propagation. This synergistic effect enhances the plasticity by modulating the self-organized behavior of the shear band, while the excess Cu (x > 0.5) leads to the performance deterioration due to the structural instability. This study provides a theoretical basis for the design of new Co-based metallic glasses with both ultra-high strength and moderate plasticity.
{"title":"Effects of minor Cu content addition on mechanical properties of Co-Ta-B-Si bulk metallic glasses","authors":"Qiang Huang , Yanhua Chen , Shuyan Zhang , Xingxing Bai , Min Shi , Jiankang Ye , Miaomiao Lv , Yiran Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109192","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109192","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this study, induction melting combined with J-quenching technique was used to prepare (Co<sub>0.63</sub>Ta<sub>0.1</sub>B<sub>0.25</sub>Si<sub>0.02</sub>)<sub>100-x</sub>Cu<sub>x</sub> (x = 0–0.9 at.%) Co-based bulk metallic glasses were systematically probed for the effects of trace Cu doping on the modulation of its mechanical properties and deformation mechanism. The results show that when the Cu content is 0.3–0.5 at.%, the comprehensive properties of the alloys are significantly enhanced. The material obtains optimal plastic deformation capacity at x = 0.5, with a compressive fracture strength of 5500 MPa and an increase in plastic strain up to 5.5 %. Meanwhile, the critical diameter (<em>D</em><sub>c</sub>) can reach 2 mm for Cu<sub>0.5</sub> sample, and the supercooled liquid region (Δ<em>T</em><sub>x</sub>) broadens to the maximum value of 46.9 K, suggesting the glass formation ability (GFA) is properly enhanced with the minor addition of Cu. Microscopic mechanism studies show that the positive mixing enthalpy of Cu - Co atoms induces the formation of short-range ordered nanoclusters at 1–2 nm scale (cluster density reaches 18 % at x = 0.5), which contributes to the free volume distribution and the multiplicity of high-density shear bands to proliferate. Serrated flow behavior analysis reveals that Cu doping decreases the critical shear band velocity (CSBV) to 5.09 × 10<sup>−6</sup> m/s, and statistical analysis of the sawtooth stress drop transformed from Gaussian to power law distribution, indicating the enhancement of shear band interactions and the deceleration of propagation. This synergistic effect enhances the plasticity by modulating the self-organized behavior of the shear band, while the excess Cu (x > 0.5) leads to the performance deterioration due to the structural instability. This study provides a theoretical basis for the design of new Co-based metallic glasses with both ultra-high strength and moderate plasticity.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109192"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146185340","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 : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2026-01-28DOI: 10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109177
Nithin Joseph Reddy Sagili Arthur , Rae Eon Kim , Ana Martins , Hyoung Seop Kim , N. Schell , João Pedro Oliveira
Dissimilar fusion welding of a NiTi shape memory alloy and an AlCoCrFeNi2.1 eutectic high entropy alloy was performed using a niobium interlayer. The unique properties of these materials complement each other, potentially enabling hybrid structures for advanced applications and smart systems. Gas tungsten arc welding with an arc offset technique was employed to create a weld-braze joint at the NiTi-Nb interface while controlling the heat input. Comprehensive microstructural and phase analysis was carried out using optical and electron microscopy, synchrotron X-ray diffraction, and was further supplemented by thermodynamic simulations. Dissolution of the Nb interlayer altered the solidification pathways in the fusion zone, leading to the formation of topologically close-packed phases (including C14 Laves and σ) and Ti2Ni. Multiple interfacial reactions at the NiTi interface introduced significant strain, which increased hardness but also acted as stress concentrators during tensile loading. The addition of the niobium interlayer enabled the formation of a stable, crack-free joint, whereas welding without an interlayer resulted in catastrophic cracking.
{"title":"Gas tungsten arc welding of NiTi shape memory alloy and AlCoCrFeNi2.1 eutectic high entropy alloy using a niobium interlayer","authors":"Nithin Joseph Reddy Sagili Arthur , Rae Eon Kim , Ana Martins , Hyoung Seop Kim , N. Schell , João Pedro Oliveira","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109177","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109177","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Dissimilar fusion welding of a NiTi shape memory alloy and an AlCoCrFeNi<sub>2.1</sub> eutectic high entropy alloy was performed using a niobium interlayer. The unique properties of these materials complement each other, potentially enabling hybrid structures for advanced applications and smart systems. Gas tungsten arc welding with an arc offset technique was employed to create a weld-braze joint at the NiTi-Nb interface while controlling the heat input. Comprehensive microstructural and phase analysis was carried out using optical and electron microscopy, synchrotron X-ray diffraction, and was further supplemented by thermodynamic simulations. Dissolution of the Nb interlayer altered the solidification pathways in the fusion zone, leading to the formation of topologically close-packed phases (including C14 Laves and σ) and Ti<sub>2</sub>Ni. Multiple interfacial reactions at the NiTi interface introduced significant strain, which increased hardness but also acted as stress concentrators during tensile loading. The addition of the niobium interlayer enabled the formation of a stable, crack-free joint, whereas welding without an interlayer resulted in catastrophic cracking.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109177"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146075911","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 : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109174
Hang Cai , Zhitao Li , Yujun Sun , Tianren Qu , Qi Han , Yunsheng Wu , Xianjun Guan , Le Zhao , Jieshan Hou , Lan-zhang Zhou
The effect of various Al/Ti ratio on microstructural characteristics and creep behavior at 1100 °C/100 MPa in low-density Ni3Al-based single crystal superalloys was systematically investigated through multi-technique characterization. Quantitative analysis revealed that a direct correlation between increasing Al/Ti ratios progressively adjusted from 0.54 through 1.00 to 1.86 and corresponding enhancement in γ′ phase volume fraction from 67.9 % to 75.6 % and ultimately 80.4 %. This compositional modification concurrently induces three critical microstructural transformations: first, refinement of γ′ precipitates into cubic morphology with the shape factors closer to 1.41; second, narrowing of γ channels from 96.5 nm to 56.0 nm and then to 45.6 nm; third, preferential partitioning of large-radius elements including Cr and W into γ phases, driving γ/γ′ lattice misfit towards increased negative values from −0.127 % to −0.185 % and finally −0.350 %. Contrary to conventional Ti-dominated γ′ paradigm, the results in this study demonstrated superior creep performance in higher Al/Ti ratio alloys. A variety of strengthening mechanisms related to microstructures are analyzed, and the results reveal that, enhanced solid-solution strengthening in the γ phase arises from Al/Ti ratio-controlled partitioning of Mo, W and Cr solutes. Finer γ′ precipitate, higher γ′ volume fraction and narrow γ channel width induced by increasing Al/Ti ratio collectively elevate the threshold stress for dislocation climb from 24 MPa to 86 MPa. Additionally, a well-developed rafting of γ′ phase was observed in higher Al/Ti ratio alloy after creep, which also plays a role in reducing the creep rate. Finally, more completed and denser dislocations network are located at the γ/γ′ interface in the higher Al/Ti ratio alloy, effectively impeding dislocation from cutting into the γ′ precipitates, thereby reducing the minimum creep rate from 1.46 × 10−5 %‧s−1 to 1.25 × 10−6 %‧s−1, and the creep life extension up to 138.08 h. This performance represents a significant improvement over reported values for low-density superalloys.
{"title":"Unveiling the influence of Al/Ti ratio on microstructural evolution and creep behaviors in low-density Ni3Al-based SX superalloys","authors":"Hang Cai , Zhitao Li , Yujun Sun , Tianren Qu , Qi Han , Yunsheng Wu , Xianjun Guan , Le Zhao , Jieshan Hou , Lan-zhang Zhou","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109174","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109174","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The effect of various Al/Ti ratio on microstructural characteristics and creep behavior at 1100 °C/100 MPa in low-density Ni<sub>3</sub>Al-based single crystal superalloys was systematically investigated through multi-technique characterization. Quantitative analysis revealed that a direct correlation between increasing Al/Ti ratios progressively adjusted from 0.54 through 1.00 to 1.86 and corresponding enhancement in γ′ phase volume fraction from 67.9 % to 75.6 % and ultimately 80.4 %. This compositional modification concurrently induces three critical microstructural transformations: first, refinement of γ′ precipitates into cubic morphology with the shape factors closer to 1.41; second, narrowing of γ channels from 96.5 nm to 56.0 nm and then to 45.6 nm; third, preferential partitioning of large-radius elements including Cr and W into γ phases, driving γ/γ′ lattice misfit towards increased negative values from −0.127 % to −0.185 % and finally −0.350 %. Contrary to conventional Ti-dominated γ′ paradigm, the results in this study demonstrated superior creep performance in higher Al/Ti ratio alloys. A variety of strengthening mechanisms related to microstructures are analyzed, and the results reveal that, enhanced solid-solution strengthening in the γ phase arises from Al/Ti ratio-controlled partitioning of Mo, W and Cr solutes. Finer γ′ precipitate, higher γ′ volume fraction and narrow γ channel width induced by increasing Al/Ti ratio collectively elevate the threshold stress for dislocation climb from 24 MPa to 86 MPa. Additionally, a well-developed rafting of γ′ phase was observed in higher Al/Ti ratio alloy after creep, which also plays a role in reducing the creep rate. Finally, more completed and denser dislocations network are located at the γ/γ′ interface in the higher Al/Ti ratio alloy, effectively impeding dislocation from cutting into the γ′ precipitates, thereby reducing the minimum creep rate from 1.46 × 10<sup>−5</sup> %‧s<sup>−1</sup> to 1.25 × 10<sup>−6</sup> %‧s<sup>−1</sup>, and the creep life extension up to 138.08 h. This performance represents a significant improvement over reported values for low-density superalloys.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109174"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146015847","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 : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2026-02-02DOI: 10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109193
Da Chen , Yingming Sang , Zhaoyi Cheng , Jianrong Sun , Shaofei Liu , Guma Yeli , Ji-Jung Kai
In this study, the solid solution FeCoNiCr high-entropy alloy (HEA) was heavily irradiated by 3 MeV Ni ions to ∼ 107 dpa at 873 K. Transmission electron microscopy characterizations revealed that the multicomponent carbides of M23C6 (M = Cr, Fe, Co, Ni) formed at a specific depth range adjacent to the peak radiation damage layer. The grain boundaries were more sensitive to precipitation where the carbides showed a larger size, denser distribution and higher Cr-concentration. For the underlying mechanisms, carbon contaminations from irradiation chamber were believed to introduce C which diffused into the alloy during high-temperature irradiation. Meanwhile, the radiation induced supersaturation of Cr-interstitials supplied the necessary solutes for precipitation. The kinetic stability of carbides was controlled by radiation cascade damage against the thermodynamic driving force for phase formation. It explains why precipitates appeared at a defined depth.
{"title":"Unexpected carbide formation in the FeCoNiCr high-entropy alloy under prolonged high temperature ion irradiation","authors":"Da Chen , Yingming Sang , Zhaoyi Cheng , Jianrong Sun , Shaofei Liu , Guma Yeli , Ji-Jung Kai","doi":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109193","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.intermet.2026.109193","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this study, the solid solution FeCoNiCr high-entropy alloy (HEA) was heavily irradiated by 3 MeV Ni ions to ∼ 107 dpa at 873 K. Transmission electron microscopy characterizations revealed that the multicomponent carbides of M<sub>23</sub>C<sub>6</sub> (M = Cr, Fe, Co, Ni) formed at a specific depth range adjacent to the peak radiation damage layer. The grain boundaries were more sensitive to precipitation where the carbides showed a larger size, denser distribution and higher Cr-concentration. For the underlying mechanisms, carbon contaminations from irradiation chamber were believed to introduce C which diffused into the alloy during high-temperature irradiation. Meanwhile, the radiation induced supersaturation of Cr-interstitials supplied the necessary solutes for precipitation. The kinetic stability of carbides was controlled by radiation cascade damage against the thermodynamic driving force for phase formation. It explains why precipitates appeared at a defined depth.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":331,"journal":{"name":"Intermetallics","volume":"191 ","pages":"Article 109193"},"PeriodicalIF":4.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146185337","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}