A new approach for analysing interdiffusion in multicomponent alloys

Analysis of interdiffusion in multicomponent alloys is addressed by developing a new and elegant math-ematical approach that is based on the fitting of composition profiles into a closed-form solution where interdiffusion coefficients are independent of composition. As examples, ternary metallic systems are analysed using one and two diffusion couples with the full set of interdiffusion coefficients being de-termined. Overall, the new fitting method gives excellent outcomes and allows the probing of multiple solutions (validated by back-testing) that exist when a single diffusion couple is used in multicomponent ( > 2) systems. Important findings of the present investigation show that small differences in composition profiles may lead to large differences in the interdiffusion coefficients. In addition, the newly developed approach is successfully applied to experimental results for the Cu-Ni-Zn alloys annealed at 775 degrees C for 48 h. (c) 2021 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The analysis of interdiffusion in multicomponent alloys is approached using a new mathematical method that fits composition profiles and determines interdiffusion coefficients. Small differences in composition profiles can lead to significant variations in interdiffusion coefficients. The new approach shows excellent performance in experimental results.