Alloying effects of refractory elements in the dislocation of Ni-based single crystal superalloys

The alloying effects of W, Cr and Re in the [100] (010) edge dislocation cores (EDC) of Ni-based single crystal superalloys are investigated using first-principles based on the density functional theory (DFT). The binding energy, Mulliken orbital population, density of states, charge density and radial distribution functions are discussed, respectively. It is clearly demonstrated that the addition of refractory elements improves the stability of the EDC systems. In addition, they can form tougher bonds with their nearest neighbour (NN) Ni atoms, which enhance the mechanical properties of the Ni-based single crystal superalloys. Through comparative analysis, Cr-doped system has lower binding energy, and Cr atom has evident effect to improve the systemic stability. However, Re atom has the stronger alloying effect in Ni-based single crystal superalloys, much more effectively hindering dislocation motion than W and Cr atoms.