Recent research published in ‘Cailiao Baohu’ (Materials Protection) has unveiled significant insights into the oxidation behavior of nickel-based single-crystal superalloy DD10, particularly in relation to the growth direction of dendrites. This study, led by a team from Dalian University of Technology, including WANG Zelei and his colleagues, highlights a critical aspect of alloy performance that could have far-reaching implications for industries reliant on high-performance materials, especially in the construction and aerospace sectors.
The researchers conducted their experiments at a high temperature of 1,050 °C, analyzing the evolution of surface oxide films in DD10 superalloy both perpendicular and parallel to the primary dendrite growth direction. Using advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), they discovered that while the growth direction did not affect the oxidation kinetics or the overall structure of the oxide film, it significantly influenced the rate of oxidation weight gain.
“The oxidation rate constant was notably higher in the parallel plane compared to the vertical plane,” explained WANG Zelei. Specifically, the oxidation rate constant for the parallel plane was measured at 6.24 × 10⁻³ mg²/(cm⁴·s), compared to 5.96 × 10⁻³ mg²/(cm⁴·s) for the vertical plane. This difference is attributed to the presence of more γ – γ’ phase interfaces, which provide numerous nucleation sites for oxide formation.
This research is particularly relevant for industries that utilize superalloys in high-temperature applications, such as gas turbines and jet engines. The findings suggest that optimizing the dendrite growth direction during manufacturing could enhance the oxidation resistance of these materials, ultimately leading to longer service lives and improved performance. In construction, where materials must withstand extreme conditions, the ability to tailor superalloy properties could result in more durable structures and components.
As the industry continues to push the boundaries of material science, WANG and his team’s work underscores the importance of understanding microstructural characteristics in developing advanced materials. “Our findings could guide future innovations in superalloy processing, paving the way for materials that meet the demanding requirements of modern engineering applications,” added WANG.
This research not only contributes to the scientific community’s understanding of material behavior but also sets the stage for practical applications that could enhance the efficiency and longevity of critical infrastructure. For more information about the research team, you can visit Dalian University of Technology.
