a b s t r a c t Grain boundaries influence mechanical, functional, and kinetic properties of metallic alloys. They can be manipulated via solute decoration enabling changes in energy, mobility, structure, and cohesion or even promoting local phase transformation. In the approach which we refer here to as ‘segregation engineering’ solute decoration is not regarded as an undesired phenomenon but is instead utilized to manipulate specific grain boundary structures, compositions and properties that enable useful material behavior. The underlying thermodynamics follow the adsorption isotherm. Hence, matrix-solute combinations suited for designing interfaces in metallic alloys can be identified by considering four main aspects, namely, the segregation coefficient of the decorating element; its effects on interface cohesion, energy, structure and mobility; its diffusion coefficient; and the free energies of competing bulk phases, precipitate phases or complexions. From a practical perspective, segregation engineering in alloys can be usually realized by a modest diffusion heat treatment, hence, making it available in large scale manufacturing.

Grain boundary segregation engineering in metallic alloys: A pathway to the design of interfaces

The mechanism of formation of nanostructure and dissolution of cementite in a pearlitic steel during high pressure torsion

In order to determine the effect of the carbon content and the transformation on the mechanical properties and microstructures of the FSW carbon steel joints, three types of carbon steels with different carbon contents (IF steel, S12C, S35C) were friction stir welded under various welding conditions. Compared with IF steel, the microstructures and mechanical properties of the carbon steel joints are significantly affected by the welding conditions. The strength of the S12C steel joints increases with the increasing welding speed (decreasing the heat input), while the strength of the S35C steel joints shows a peak near 200 mm/min. This can be explained by the relationship between the peak temperature and the A 1 and A 3 points. When friction stir welding is performed in the ferrite–austenite two-phase region, the microstructure is refined and the highest strength is then achieved.

T Takahashi

Papers

Cementite decomposition in heavily drawn pearlite steel wire