Modification of inclusion in high-strength steel treated with rare earth

Abstract

This study focuses on the key issue of brittle inclusions leading to the failure of high-strength steel and investigates the modification of inclusions in steel using rare earth elements. By combining experimental characterization, thermodynamic calculations, and first-principles calculations, the evolution of inclusions in high-strength steel before and after La–Ce rare earth modification is revealed from both macroscopic and microscopic perspectives. The physical properties of different types of inclusions and their impact on steel performance are also examined. The results show that, in the absence of La–Ce, the main inclusions in the steel are large-sized MnS, Ca–Al(-Mg)-O, MnS, and their composite inclusions. After the addition of La–Ce, the original inclusions transform into smaller-sized, nearly spherical or ellipsoidal RE-O-S and RE-O-S + CaS inclusions. The evolution sequence of inclusions in Ce-treated high-strength steel is as follows: Slag phase- > Slag phase + CeAlO₃+CaO- > Slag phase + CeAlO₃+CaO + Ce₂O₃- > CeAlO₃+CaO + Ce₂O₃- > CeAlO₃+CaO + Ce₂O₃+CaS- > Ce₂O₃+CaS- > Ce₂O₃+CaS- > Ce₂O₃+CaS + Ce₂O₂S. Compared to the Fe matrix, the elastic modulus (B), shear modulus (G), Young's modulus (E), and hardness (Hv) of Al₂O₃, LaAlO₃, and CeAlO₃ differ significantly, while the corresponding values of CaAl₂O₄, Ca₃Al₂O₆, and Ca₁₂Al₁₄O₃₃ are all lower than those of the Fe matrix and exhibit brittle characteristics. In contrast, Ce₂O₂S and La₂O₂S show small differences in elastic modulus, and hardness compared to the Fe matrix, which improves the consistency of plastic deformation in the steel matrix, delays the initiation of microvoids and microcracks, and enhances the mechanical properties of the steel. This study provides a theoretical basis for understanding the mechanism of rare earth elements in steel and optimizing the performance of steel.