Work

Additively manufactured Y2O3-reinforced high speed steel with excellent strength and wear resistance

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Materials enhanced with nanoparticles and prepared through Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) exhibit significantly improved wear resistance and ductility. Nonetheless, there is a current lack of research on the microstructural characteristics and wear mechanisms of particle-reinforced high-carbon steels produced via LPBF. We systematically investigate the microstructure of M2 high-speed steel with varying Y2O3 nanoparticle contents and its behavior under high-load reciprocating friction at room temperature. Special attention is given to the microstructural evolution caused by wear and the influence of Y2O3 nanoparticles on the steel's microstructure. When 1% Y2O3 is added, the wear rate of the alloy at room temperature decreases by approximately 50% compared to the base alloy. TEM analysis reveals that Y2O3 nanoparticles induce the formation of a high-density L12 coherent precipitate phase in M2 high-speed steel, leading to the development of a thicker oxide layer during wear. The exceptional wear resistance of the alloy containing 1% Y2O3 at room temperature is primarily due to the precipitation strengthening from the dense coherent L12 phase and the lubricating effect of the oxide layer formed near the sliding surface. This work provides crucial insights into the development of high-performance tool materials and the mechanisms enhancing their wear resistance.

Source: Materials & Design

DOI: 10.1016/j.matdes.2025.115101