Multiscale Characterization of an Oxide Scale Formed on the Creep-Resistant ATI 718Plus Superalloy during High-Temperature Oxidation

The ATI 718Plus(®) is a creep-resistant nickel-based superalloy exhibiting high strength and excellent oxidation resistance in high temperatures. The present study is focused on multiscale 2D and 3D characterization (morphological and chemical) of the scale and the layer beneath formed on the ATI 718Plus superalloy during oxidation at 850 °C up to 4000 h in dry and wet air. The oxidized samples were characterized using various microscopic methods (SEM, TEM and STEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and electron diffraction. The 3D visualization of the microstructural features was achieved by means of FIB-SEM tomography. When oxidized in dry air, the ATI 718Plus develops a protective, dense Cr(2)O(3) scale with a dual-layered structure. The outer Cr(2)O(3) layer is composed of coarser grains with a columnar shape, while the inner one features fine, equiaxed grains. The Cr(2)O(3) scale formed in wet air is single-layered and features very fine grains. The article discusses the difference between the structure, chemistry and three-dimensional phase distribution of the oxide scales and near-surface areas developed in the two environments. Electron microscopy/spectroscopy findings combined with the three-dimensional reconstruction of the microstructure provide original insight into the role of the oxidation environment on the structure of the ATI 718Plus at the nanoscale.