Mo-Si-B Alloy Development

Mo-Si-B silicides consisting of the phases {alpha}-Mo (Mo solid solution), Mo{sub 3}Si, and Mo{sub 5}SiB{sub 2} have melting points on the order of 2000 C and have potential as ultra-high temperature structural materials. Mo-Si-B alloys can be processed such that the {alpha}-Mo is present in the form of isolated particles in a silicide matrix, or as a continuous matrix ''cementing'' individual silicide particles together. The latter microstructure is similar to that of WC-Co hard metals. This paper focuses on the relationship between the topology as well as scale of the microstructure of Mo-Mo{sub 3}Si-Mo{sub 5}SiB{sub 2} alloys, and their creep strength and fracture toughness. For example, the creep strength of Mo-Si-B alloys is improved by reducing the {alpha}-Mo volume fraction and by making the {alpha}-Mo phase discontinuous. The fracture toughness is improved by increasing the {alpha}-Mo volume fraction and by making the {alpha}-Mo phase continuous. Room temperature stress intensity factors as high as 21 MPa m{sup 1/2} were obtained. The room temperature fracture toughness of Mo-Si-B alloys can also be improved by microalloying with Zr. The room temperature ductility of Mo itself can be improved by adding MgAl{sub 2}O{sub 4} spinel particles suggesting yet another way to improve the ductile phase toughening of Mo-Si-B alloys.