The intermediate temperature deformation of Ni-based superalloys: Importance of reordering

A number of planar deformation mechanisms, such as microtwinning, a[112] dislocation ribbon, and superlattice intrinsic and superlattice extrinsic stacking fault formation, can operate during the intermediate temperature deformation of nickle-based superalloys. The fundamental, rate-limiting processes controlling these deformation mechanisms are not fully understood. It has been recently postulated that reordering of atoms in the wake of the gliding partial dislocations as they shear the gamma'precipitates within the gamma/gamma'microstructure is the limiting process. Experimental evidence that substantiates the validity of the reordering model for the microtwinning mechanism is provided. A conceptual approach to study reordering at the atomic scale using ab-initio calculation methods is also presented. The results of this approach provide a clear conceptualization of the energetics and kinetics of the reordering process, which may be generically important for the aforementioned planar deformation modes.