Exploring the evolution of microstructure and mechanical property of a γʹ-strengthened Co-based single crystal superalloy during creep and thermal exposure at 1000 °C

The study provided a systematic investigation into the creep behavior of a γʹ-strengthened Co-based single crystal superalloy Co-7Al-8W-1Ta-4Ti (at.%) under compressive creep conditions at 1000 ℃ and 137 MPa. Simultaneously, the microstructural changes during thermal exposure at 1000 ℃ were thoroughly examined. The microstructure analysis of the creep samples revealed the presence of γ/γʹ rafts, twins, stacking faults, and dislocation networks. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the dimensions and volume fractions of γʹ, alongside Vickers hardness tests and nanoindentation experiments. Results show that γʹ dissolution in the creep samples with substantially higher dissolution rates compared to thermal exposure. Localized Co depletion and Ti enrichment in twin is observed in creep sample, potentially initiating localized phase transformations. Concurrently, lattice rotation occurred during creep, resulting in a progressive deviation of crystal orientation away from the [001] direction. Stacking faults transitioned from network-like structures to parallel configurations, and twins played a significant role in creep deformation, particularly in samples subjected to 382 h creep. The study also explored the evolution of Vickers hardness and the elastic modulus, introducing a systematic linear model to describe Vickers hardness changes during both thermal exposure and creep conditions.