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Title: Cr{sub 2}Nb-based alloy development

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/115404· OSTI ID:115404
; ;  [1]
  1. Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States); and others

The objective of this task is to develop a new generation of structural materials based on intermetallic alloys for use as critical hot components in advanced fossil energy conversion systems. The intermetallic phase, Cr{sub 2}Nb, with a complex cubic structure (C-15) has been selected for this development because of its high melting point (1770{degrees}C), relatively low material density (7.7 g/cm{sup 2}), excellent high-temperature strength (at 1000 to 1250{degrees}C), and potential resistance to oxidation and corrosion. This intermetallic phase, like many other Laves phases, has a wide range of compositional homogeneity suggesting the possibility of improving its mechanical and metallurgical properties by alloying additions. The major engineering concern with Cr{sub 2}Nb and other A{sub 2}B Laves phases is their poor fracture toughness and fracture resistance at ambient temperatures. The single-phase Cr{sub 2}Nb is very hard ({approximately}800 DPH) and brittle at room temperature. Because of this brittleness, the development effort has concentrated on two-phase structures containing the hard intermetallic phase Cr{sub 2}Nb and the softer Cr-rich solid solution phase. Potential applications of Cr-Cr{sub 2}Nb alloys include hot components (for example, air heat exchangers and turbine blades) in advanced energy conversion systems and heat engines, wear-resistant parts in coal handling systems (e.g., nozzles), drill bits for oil/gas wells, and valve guides in diesel engines. Current studies are focuses on enhancement of fracture resistance in tension at ambient temperatures and oxidation resistance above 1000{degrees}C. This report summarizes recent progress on controlling microstructure and improving the mechanical and metallurgical properties and the high-temperature corrosion behavior of Cr-Cr{sub 2}Nb alloys through alloying conditions, material processing, and heat treatment.

Research Organization:
Oak Ridge National Lab. (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-84OR21400
OSTI ID:
115404
Report Number(s):
ORNL-6874; ON: DE95015441; TRN: 95:006983-0006
Resource Relation:
Other Information: PBD: Jun 1995; Related Information: Is Part Of Fossil Energy Program annual progress report for April 1994 through March 1995; PB: 203 p.
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English