Solute atom segregation and phase transitions at internal interfaces in metal alloys are studied using sophisticated high resolution techniques. The objective is to understand the segregation of solute atoms as a function of the structure of an interface and the thermodynamics of the bulk system. The chemical compositions of individual boundaries are measured by atom probe field ion microscopy and atomic resolution analytical electron microscopy. Simulation techniques are employed to explore the eight-dimensional hyperspace of a grain boundary with respect to solute atom segregation and phase transitions. Both tilt and twist grain boundaries are studied with different crystallographic interfaces. %%% Interface properties play a major role in determining important properties of metal alloys that can determine their end use, such as a structural material or magnetic material. This research should result in a better understanding of solute segregation at interfaces, which in turn affects the interfacial properties.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Materials Research (DMR)
Application #
9121635
Program Officer
Bruce A. MacDonald
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1992-03-15
Budget End
1995-02-28
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1991
Total Cost
$547,016
Indirect Cost
Name
Northwestern University at Chicago
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Evanston
State
IL
Country
United States
Zip Code
60201