Iron aluminides: present status and future prospects

This paper constitutes a broad survey of the physical, mechanical and corrosion properties of Fe3Al alloys, as well as a review of principal processing methods. This class of alloys, once thought to be inherently brittle, is shown to possess moderate ductility, provided that mechanical testing is carried out in an inert environment. Methods to improve mechanical properties by alloying and microstructural control are described. The influence of alloying elements on corrosion and stress corrosion resistance and weldability also is reviewed.