Mechanical behaviour of nanoporous superalloy membranes

Abstract The mechanical behaviour of nanoporous superalloy membranes is analysed for the first time and discussed in conjunction with their microstructure, consisting of ligaments of the γ′ phase and channel-like pores a few hundred nanometers wide. Tensile tests and vibrating reed experiments are performed to determine the mechanical properties. It is shown that they are strongly dependent on the processing procedure, the orientation of the γ′ ligaments and interdendritic heterogeneities. A microstructural model of the membrane materials is then used to analyse the findings in more detail and rationalize the observed elastic behaviour. Following these results, unique metallic membrane materials can be produced, combining excellent strength on a macroscopic scale with extremely fine porosity on a microscopic scale.