Formation mechanism and thermal stability of C15-Laves phase in a Hf-containing Co-based superalloy

Abstract Topologically close-packed (TCP) phases such as μ and Laves phases formed during solidification has an important influence on the mechanical properties of superalloys. Understanding the formation and elimination mechanism of TCP phases is the key to promote the development of superalloys. In this study, C15-Laves phase was first found in a Hf-containing Co-based superalloy, meanwhile, the formation mechanism and thermal stability of the C15-Laves phase were clarified. The results showed that the formation of C15-Laves phase was associated with the segregation behavior of alloying elements during solidification: Co, W and Cr segregated to the dendrite core, and Hf, Ta, Ti, Mo, Ni, Al, Si segregated to the interdendritic region. In the final stage of solidification, the C15-Laves phase enriched in Hf, Ta and Ti formed, and it had similar lattice parameters to the C15-Co2Hf phase. The incipient melting point of C15-Laves phase was between 1170 ℃ and 1180 ℃, and it gradually decomposed to form the Hf-rich MC carbide during solution treatment. The large formation energy differences between the MC carbide and C15-Laves phase promoted a rapid elimination of the C15-Laves phase, which reduced solution treatment time of the alloy. The results can provide a theoretical basis and experimental data support for the composition design and heat treatment process optimization of multicomponent novel Co-based superalloys.