Improving oxidation resistance of Ni-16Mo-7Cr-4Fe nickel-based superalloy by yttrium microalloying

Microstructure and oxidation behavior of modified Ni-16Mo-7Cr-4Fe alloys by yttrium microalloying were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, grazing incident X-ray diffraction and synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence. M6C and Ni17Y2 phases were observed and the amount of Ni17Y2 increased with yttrium concentration. When the yttrium concentration increased to 0.43wt.%, some Ni17Y2 chains and multi phase regions containing Ni17Y2, M6C and γ phase appeared, which is harmful for the oxidation resistance. The alloy containing 0.05wt.% yttrium showed the best oxidation resistance, which derives its oxidation resistance from the adequate concentration of yttrium in the solid-solution (γ phase), the formation of the protective layer of YCrO3 and chromia oxide and the strengthening effect of yttrium on oxide boundaries.