Shining light on nanoscale ‘vine-on-stick’ eutectic structures in the Al-Ce-Ni system
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Multiphase eutectics often comprise entangled solid phases with nanoscale periodicity, making it difficult to unravel their 3D connectivity using conventional 2D techniques. Among such systems, the three-phase eutectic Al-Al 11 Ce 3 -Al 3 Ni stands out for its ultrafine (∼100 nm) interphase spacing and promising creep resistance, yet its microstructure remains relatively unexplored despite its potential for high-temperature applications. Here, we use scanning hard X-ray microscopy with an unprecedented ∼10 nm pixel size to resolve its 3D morphology. Reconstructions reveal a novel “vine-on-stick” motif, wherein Al 11 Ce 3 wraps around Al 3 Ni pillars. Analysis of phase tortuosities confirms that Al 11 Ce 3 exhibits more convoluted morphologies than Al 3 Ni. No orientation relationship was observed between the two intermetallics, suggesting that growth is controlled by local solute gradients rather than epitaxy. Fragmentation of intermetallics along their longitudinal axis suggests a Rayleigh-type breakup mechanism in solid state. The “vine-on-stick” pattern may generalize to other alloy systems with variable interfacial anisotropies and low mutual solubilities.
Source: Scripta Materialia
Authors: S. Dasgupta, T. Wu, A. Michelson, X. Hu, D.C. Dunand, A.J. Shahani
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,220
Funders: National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Energy, Northwestern University, Office of Science, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Division of Materials Research, Division of Electrical, Communications and Cyber Systems, Air Force Office of Scientific Research, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office
OpenAlex ID: W4413353974