Combustion synthesis and characterization of bulk nanostructured Ni ₅₀Al ₁₇Fe ₃₃ alloy

A bulk nanostructured Ni ₅₀Al ₁₇Fe ₃₃ alloy was produced by combustion synthesis associated with rapid solidification. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the as-fabricated material were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and mechanical tests. The Ni ₅₀Al ₁₇Fe ₃₃ alloy was composed of eutectic matrix and precipitated phase. The eutectic matrix consisted of 30 - 50 nm globular γ'-(Ni,Fe) ₃Al and 5- 10 nm γ-Ni(Fe) boundary. The precipitate was comprised of 100 -150 nm γ'-(Ni,Fe) ₃Al, γ-Fe, and α-Fe solid solution phases. The nanostructured Ni ₅₀Al ₁₇Fe ₃₃ alloy exhibited simultaneously high yield stress (about 900 MPa), high fracture strength (over 3 860 MPa), and good ductility (over 75%) in compression.