Processing of fine-grained mechanically alloyed FeAl

The aim of this study is to investigate the role of different processing routes both for the microstructure and the mechanisms of fracture. Material has been produced from powder that has been treated in argon during the whole process as well as powder that has been handled in air after mechanical alloying before the consolidation with hot isostatic pressing (HIP). As it is known that alloying with boron is necessary to enhance ductility further, B-containing material was produced as well. All materials were fine-grained (1-5 mum) containing mu-sized inclusions of Al2O3, formed in-situ during processing. These inclusions delaminated from the matrix in the fracture surfaces, which imply that they play a role in the crack propagation. The mechanical properties were not impaired by air exposure of the powder, and the best ductility (7%) was attained in the boron containing material. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.