Structural and Gamma-Ray Absorption Properties of Newly Developed Ni3Al Based Superalloys

Ni3Al-based superalloys are advanced engineering materials that provide strength, oxidation, and creep resistanceat high temperatures. These alloys are based on the regular L12 crystal structure of Ni3Al and generally contain aγ′ (Ni3Al) phase precipitated within a γ (Ni) matrix. This microstructure ensures the maintenance of hightemperature strength. Additions of elements such as boron, zirconium, and chromium enhance ductility andoxidation resistance. Ni₃Al-based alloys are widely used in jet engines, gas turbines, and power generation systems.Despite their light weight, they exhibit high mechanical performance. In this presented study, high energy photonabsorption capacities of three different superalloys with the structures of Al10Cr15Nb1Mo1W1Ni30,Al8.5Cr17Nb1Mo1W1Ni25.5, and Al9.5Cr15.5Nb1Mo1W1Ni28.5 were investigated in addition to their crystallographicand morphological structures. Step sintering method was used in the production of these alloys, which wereselected in the light of literature information. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM)analyses were used to characterize the alloys. Photon absorption capabilities were obtained using a high puritygermanium (HPGe) detector and a Ba radioactive source. XRD analyses revealed that all three superalloys arepolycrystalline, containing the Cr2O3 structure in addition to the classical Ni3Al phases. SEM images revealed theformation of highly homogeneous, tightly packed pyramidal structures extending from the surface. Photonabsorption experiments revealed that the three superalloys produced had better photon interaction cross sectionscompared to the pure Ni3Al structure, thus possessing higher photon absorption capacity at all energy levelsexamined.