Stabilization of martensitic microstructure in advanced 9Cr steel during creep at high temperature

TLDR: In this paper, the stabilization of martensitic microstructure in the vicinity of prior austenite grain boundaries during creep has been investigated by the addition of boron and by a dispersion of nano-size MX nitrides.

Abstract: In order to improve the long-term creep strength of 9%Cr steel, the stabilization of martensitic microstructure in the vicinity of prior austenite grain boundaries during creep has been investigated by the addition of boron and by a dispersion of nano-size MX nitrides. Creep tests were carried out at 923 K for up to about 3×10 4  h. Boron is enriched in the M 23 C 6 carbides during aging and creep, especially in the vicinity of prior austenite grain boundaries. This reduces the coarsening rate of M 23 C 6 carbides, which effectively stabilizes the martensitic microstructure in the vicinity of prior austenite grain boundaries. A dispersion of nano-sized MX nitrides but no M 23 C 6 along boundaries also gives rise to excellent pinning force for migrating boundaries during creep, as shown by approximately two orders of magnitude longer time to rupture than ASME-P92. The stabilization of martensitic microstructure retards the onset of tertiary or acceleration creep, which results in lower minimum creep rate and longer time to rupture.