Thermodynamics and kinetics of long-range ordering in FCC Ni–33at.%Cr alloys: Insights from atomic scale modeling

This study investigates the thermodynamics and kinetics of the NiCr system, focusing specifically on the kinetics of the order–disorder phase transformation in the Ni–33at.%Cr alloy. Combining density functional theory, CALPHAD-type models, and experimental diffusion data, we introduce and validate an efficient pair interaction model (PIM) and use it in Monte Carlo simulations. Our results include a detailed phase diagram of NiCr in face-centered cubic structure and kinetic models that delineate the behavior of solid solutions at high temperatures and ordered structures at low temperatures. The simulations shed light on tracer diffusion and ordering kinetics within Ni–33at.%Cr, demonstrating good agreement with existing experimental data. Furthermore, our simulation-driven insights prompt a reevaluation of certain aspects of related experimental studies concerning the apparent ordering activation enthalpies and growth kinetics. We also provide a thorough discussion on the strengths of our models and features for future improvement.