Isothermal oxidation behavior and mechanism of a nickel-based superalloy at 1000°C

The oxidation behavior of a nickel-based superalloy at 1000°C in air was investigated through X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy analysis. A series of oxides, including external oxide scales(Cr2O3,（TiO2 + Mn Cr2O4）) and internal oxides（Al2O3,Ti N）, were formed on the surface or sub-surface of the substrate at 1000°C in experimental still air. The oxidation resistance of the alloy was dependent on the stability of the surface oxide layer. The continuity and density of the protective Cr2O3 scale were affected by minor alloying elements such as Ti and Mn. The outermost oxide scale was composed of TiO2 rutile and Mn Cr2O4 spinel, and the growth of TiO2 particles was controlled by the outer diffusion of Ti ions through the pre-existing oxide layer. Severe internal oxidation occurred beneath the external oxide scale, consuming Al and Ti of the strength phase γ′(Ni3（Al,Ti）) and thereby severely deteriorating the surface mechanical properties. The depth of the internal oxidation region was approximately 35 μm after exposure to experimental air at 1000°C for 80 h.