Interdiffusion behaviors and mechanical properties in Zr-Nb-Hf system

The diffusion behavior and mechanical properties of the Zr-Nb-Hf system were analyzed using diffusion couple technology and nanoindentation techniques. The diffusion couples were annealed at 1523 K for 24 h, and the compositional profile of the diffusion region was determined using electron probe microanalysis. The main diffusion coefficients, cross-diffusion coefficients, and impurity diffusion coefficients were calculated using the Whittle and Green method, as well as the generalized Hall method. Furthermore, the hardness and Young`s modulus of the alloy with different compositions were calculated by Oliver method, based on load-displacement curves obtained from nanoindentation tests. Additionally, the wear resistance and resistance to plastic deformation of the Zr-Nb-Hf alloys were inferred. These results contribute to the existing database of diffusion kinetics and mechanical properties in the Zr-Nb-Hf system, providing valuable references for the development of Zr-Nb-Hf-based alloys with exceptional properties.