POSTECH designs 3D-printing alloy with yield strength above 1 GPa from −196 °C to 600 °C

A Korean team printed laboratory samples of an alloy that holds strength and ductility from −196 to 600 °C without post-heat treatment. Further verification is planned.

The Korea National Research Foundation said on 5 November that a POSTECH team led by Professor Kim Hyoung Seop designed a 3D-printing alloy that keeps high strength and ductility from −196 °C to 600 °C without post-heat treatment, yna.co.kr reports yna.co.kr. Precipitates form a network during rapid melting and solidification.

Samples were built by laser melting of metal powder layer by layer. In tensile tests at −196 °C, 25 °C and 600 °C, yield strength was at least 1 GPa and uniform elongation was 19–26%, the team said.

Electron microscopy showed that interfaces between precipitates and the matrix acted differently: some hindered deformation and raised strength, others passed deformation to the precipitates so both deformed together. Kim said the team will verify the alloy further for cryogenic storage, aerospace parts and additive manufacturing.