Bulk processing of high-performance nanocrystalline intermetallics

We present an inexpensive, bulk-processing technique for the mass fabrication of a high-performance, nanocrystalline intermetallic with no internal flaws: the recrystallization of plastically deformed ingots through controlled heat treatments. We demonstrate that FeCo alloys with average grain sizes of 100 nm can be produced using this method. The nanocrystalline materials have tensile yield strengths as high as 2.2 GPa and have plastic tensile ductilities over 1.3%. Such superior properties at room temperature are currently unattainable when nanocrystalline materials are prepared by other methods.