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.