Abstract Scope |
Refractory metals and refractory high entropy alloys (RHEAs) are attractive for high temperatures applications in nuclear fusion, Gen-IV fission, gas turbines and concentrated solar power. However, there is a need to improve their balance of properties. The ‘microstructure template’ of a disordered matrix reinforced by ordered-intermetallic precipitates offers a potent design strategy for high temperature materials, enabling strength alongside damage tolerance, which has been central to the success of fcc Ni-superalloys. This has inspired a strategy of ‘bcc-superalloys’ utilising bcc-based systems that offer advantages of increased melting point and lower cost; while second-phase nano-structuring offers further advantage, for strength, creep resistance, as well giving new design bases for ductility and irradiation damage resistance.
In this talk, opportunities & recent work on bcc-superalloys nano-structured tungsten and more complex alloys, including Refractory High Entropy alloys will be presented. Prospectives will be given for the onward development of these novel concept materials. |