Influence of the alloying element Re on the ideal tensile and shear strength of γ′-Ni3Al

The effects of the alloying element Re on the ideal strength of gamma'-Ni3Al under tensile and shear stresses are investigated using the first-principles method. Results for the stress-strain relationships, ideal tensile and shear strengthes with and without Re addition are presented and explained. Re is found to be effective in improving the strength of Ni3Al. The electronic mechanism underlying the strengthening effects of Re is also elucidated. (C) 2009 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.