NiAl(110)/Cr(110) interface: A density functional theory study

The optimal geometries, thermodynamic properties, and electronic structures of NiAl(110)/Cr(110) interface are studied using a first-principle density functional plane-wave ultrasoft pseudopotential method. Surface energies of different NiAl surfaces are compared with those obtained based on the classical broken-bond rule. Simulation results indicate that the structure of Ni and Al placed in the hollow sites of Cr atoms at the interface is more thermodynamically stable, and the NiCr bonding is dominated by 3d electrons of Ni and Cr. It is found that NiAl(110)/Cr(110) alloying could lower brittleness of NiAl compounds. With simulated values of adhesion work and interface energy for NiAl(110)/Cr(110) system, its mechanical and thermodynamic properties are also discussed.