High temperature solid solution strengthening by Nb additions on Mo3Si matrix

Ternary element Nb addition on a Mo3Si matrix resulted in improved mechanical properties. Solid solution additions on the alloys at different Nb concentrations were evaluated. High temperature compression test at 1300 and 1400 °C at 10−5 s−1 shown a strong temperature and composition dependence. The calculated stress exponent from compressive analysis resulted to be n=6. Diffusion analysis were performed by using a couple of samples with and without Nb in two different conditions (t, at.%). The results from the strengthening obtained, are interpreted by calculating the diffusion coefficient. This increment in the creep strength is rationalized in terms of substitutional considering the atomic sizes for Mo and Nb.