EFFECT OF Ce ON OXIDATION BEHAVIOUR OF Ni_3Al ALLOYS

The effect of Ce on the oxidation behaviour of undoped and B-doped Ni3 Al has been studied. Ce can refine Al2O3 grains produced in the course of oxidation of polycrystalline Ni3Al, accelerate the diffusion of oxygen along Al2O3 grain boundaries,and promote the growth of Al2O3 grains. As a result, the quantity of less-protective NiO decreases. The oxidation resistance of 0.011% Ce-doped alloy is the best of all Ce-doped Ni3Al alloys. Because B is benefitial to the formation of Al2O3 and Ce can refine Al2O3 grains, the oxidation resistance of the alloy containing both B and Ce is the best.