Microstructure, interface and mechanical property of the DS NiAl/Cr(Mo,Hf)composite

A NiAl-Cr(Mo) composite containing Hf was directionally solidified under Ar atmosphere in Al2O3-SiO2 ceramic mold by the standard Bridgman method. The microstructure in the as-grown and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) conditions was studied using SEM, HREM and TEM equipped with EDXS. The composite was mainly composed of three phases, i.e. lamellar Cr(Mo), NiAl matrix and semi -continuously distributed Ni2AlHf. The common growth direction of NiAl and Cr(Mo) is < 111 >, and the interface between them was atomically flat with no transition layer. Fine G-phase precipitates were formed in the presence of Si which was from the ceramic shell molds used during the directional so lidification. The G-phase precipitates were cuboidal in shape and coherent with NiAl matrix. After the HIPed and aged treatment, the G-phase precipita tes completely disappeared and the amount of intercellular Ni2AlHf phase wa s partially reduced. The mechanical properties were measured by tensile and compressive tests within the temperature range of 25 similar to 1100 degre esC. The BDTT of the HIPed and aged materials is significantly higher than the as-grown composite. The yield stress of the composite was higher than t hat of many NiAl-based alloys and possible strengthening mechanism were dis cussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.