Phase transformation, structural evolution, and mechanical property of nanostructured feal as a result of mechanical alloying

Abstract

The objective of the work is to synthesize nanostructured FeAl alloy powder by mechanical alloying (MEA). The work concentrates on the synthesis, characterization, and structural and mechanical properties of the alloy. Nanostructured FeAl intermetallics are prepared directly by MEA in a high-energy ball mill. Milling is performed under toluene solution to avoid contamination from the milling media and atmosphere. Mixtures of elemental Fe and Al are progressively transformed into a partially disordered solid solution with an average composition of Fe-50 at.% Al. Phase transformation, structural changes, morphology, particle size measurement, and chemical composition during MEA are investigated by X ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Vickers microhardness (VMH) indentation tests are performed on the powders. The XRD and SEM studies reveal the alloying of elemental powders as well as transition to nanostructured alloy; crystallite size of 18 nm is obtained after 28 h of milling. Expansion/contraction in lattice parameter accompanied by reduction in crystallite size occurs during transition to nanostructured alloy. Longer milling introduces ordering in the alloyed powders as proved by the presence of superlattice reflection. Elemental and alloyed phases coexist while hardness increases during MEA. copy2009 Springer Science+Business Media, Inc.