Masoud Rashidi

Core-Shell Structure of Intermediate Precipitates in a Nb-Based Z-Phase Strengthened 12% Cr Steel

In creep resistant Z-phase strengthened 12% Cr steels, MX (M=Nb, Ta, or V, and X=C and/or N) to Z-phase (CrMN, M=Ta, Nb, or V) transformation plays an important role in achieving a fine distribution of Z-phase precipitates for creep strengthening. Atom probe tomography was employed to investigate the phase transformation in a Nb-based Z-phase strengthened trial steel. Using iso-concentration surfaces with different concentration values, and subtracting the matrix contribution enabled us to reveal the core-shell structure of the transient precipitates between MX and Z-phase. It was shown that Z-phase forms by diffusion of Cr into NbN upon ageing, and Z-phase has a composition corresponding to Cr1+x Nb1-x N with x=0.08.

Microstructure of Z-Phase Strengthened Martensitic Steels: Meeting the 650°C Challenge

We studied three series of Z-phase strengthened steels using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atom probe tomography to reveal the detailed microstructure of these steels. In particular, the phase transformation from M(C,N) to Z-phase (CrMN) was studied. Carbon content in the steels is the governing factor in this transformation. The impact toughness of some test alloys was rather low. This is attributed to the formation of a continuous W-rich film along prior austenite grain boundaries. Cu and C addition to the test alloys changed Laves phase morphology to discrete precipitates and improved toughness dramatically. BN particles were found in some steels. Formation of BN is directly linked to the B concentration in the steels.