Microstructure evolution and enhancement of fracture toughness of NiAl-Cr(Mo)-(Hf,Dy) alloy with a small addition of Fe during heat treatment

The microstructure evolution and room temperature fracture toughness of NiAl-Cr(Mo)-(Hf,Dy)-4Fe alloy during heat treatment have been investigated. After heat treatment (1250 degrees C), the NiAl and Cr(Mo) phases become coarse, and a local dissolution occurs in Cr(Mo) lamellae. Simultaneously, fine Hf solid solution appears at the NiAl/Cr(Mo) phase interface. Moreover, the addition of Fe can improve the fracture toughness of NiAl-Cr(Mo)-(Hf,Dy) alloy, and heat treatment can enhance fracture toughness further. The relevant toughness mechanism is also discussed. (C) 2014 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.