Microstructural and mechanical behavior study of suction cast Nb–Si binary alloys

The solidification pathways of Nb rich Nb–Si alloys when processed under non-equilibrium conditions require understanding. Continuing with our earlier work on alloying additions in single eutectic composition [1,2], we report a detailed characterization of the microstructures of Nb–Si binary alloys with wide composition range (10–25 at% Si). The alloys are processed using chilled copper mould suction casting. This has allowed us to correlate the evolution of microstructure and phases with different possible solidification pathways. Finally these are correlated with mechanical properties through studies on deformation using mechanical testing under indentation and compressive loads. It is shown that microstructure modification can significantly influence the plasticity of these alloys.