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

Abstract

Objective of the work was to synthesize nanostructured FeAl alloy powder by mechanical alloying (MEA). The work concentrated on synthesis, characterization, structural and mechanical properties of the alloy. Nanostructured FeAl intermetallics were prepared directly by MEA in a high energy rate ball mill. Milling was performed under toluene solution to avoid contamination from the milling media and atmosphere. Mixtures of elemental Fe and Al were 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 were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) respectively. Vickers micro hardness (VMH) indentation tests were performed on the powders. XRD and SEM studies revealed the alloying of elemental powders as well as transition to nanostructured alloy, crystallite size of 18 nm was obtained after 28 hours of milling. Expansion/contraction in lattice parameter accompanied by reduction in crystallite size occurs during transition to nanostructured alloy. Longer milling duration introduces ordering in the alloyed powders as proved by the presence of superlattice reflection. Elemental and alloyed phase coexist while hardness increased during MEA. 2009 Allerton Press, Inc.