Studying susceptor temperature in microwave processing of NiCrSiC-2La ₂ O ₃ composite clads

This study investigates an innovative application for developing NiCrSiC-2La 2 O 3 composite cladding on martensitic stainless-steel SS-420 using microwave hybrid heating technique, a fast energy-efficient, and cost-effective method. The cladding was processed in a standard 2.45 GHz domestic microwave oven at 900 W for 540 s. Microstructural characterization via SEM/EDS revealed a uniform dispersion of Ni, Si, C, and La 2 O 3 within the clad layer, with minimal porosity (0.703%) and a highly homogeneous structure. XRD analysis confirmed the formation of reinforcing intermetallic phases Ni 3 Si, FeNi 3 , Fe 3 O 4 , Ni 3 C, LaNi 5 , Fe 7 Ni 3 , and LaNiO 3 enhancing mechanical properties. The clad exhibited a two-fold increase in microhardness 626.30 ± 20 Hv compared to the base steel 310 ± 20 Hv. The results indicate that microwave cladding presents a viable alternative to traditional techniques, offering rapid processing, reduced defects, and improved performance for industrial applications.