Characterization of Carbides in Steels Using Atom Probe Field-Ion Microscopy

Atom probe field-ion microscopy has played an important role in the characterization of carbide precipitates in steels, and has contributed to an understanding of the transformation characteristics of complex alloy carbides within the range of possible microstructures in engineering steels. This paper initially discusses cementite formation from pearlitic, bainitic, and martensitic microstructures. Alloy carbides precipitating in secondary hardening, creep resisting, and high speed steels are subsequently discussed. It is demonstrated that atom probe field ion microscopy is a valuable technique in the development of these technologically important alloys.