ALBERT

Description:    The effect of NaOH content of electrolyte on the properties of ceramic coatings, produced in silicate solution, was studied. Morphology, chemical analysis, phase composition, and cross-section of the ceramic coatings were investigated by SEM, EDS, XRD, and OM, respectively. The corrosion resistance and corrosion mechanism were also studied using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in a 3.5% NaCl solution. To study the surface roughness, a brightness SEM image analysis method was used. Results suggested that increasing the NaOH concentration of sediment production size causes thickness and coating roughness to decrease. The lowest corrosion rate belonged to the twofold layer coating produced in 10 g/L of NaOH. Other samples, with higher concentrations of NaOH, had reduced porosity, and thus an increase in the corrosion resistance was observed. These coatings mainly consisted of α/γ-Al 2 O 3 and amorphous silica. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0151-1 Authors D. Salehi Doolabi, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, P.O. Box 76175-133, Islamic Republic Blvd., Kerman, Iran M. Ehteshamzadeh, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, P.O. Box 76175-133, Islamic Republic Blvd., Kerman, Iran S. M. M. Mirhosseini, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this study, the electric resistance spot welding process was applied to zinc-coated steel sheets used in automotive industry. Spot welding parameters namely, electrode form, electrode material, and electrode force were stayed constant, and welding current and welding time have been changed to detect the optimum welding parameters for maximum joint strength. Using 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 kA welding currents and 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 cycles welding times 1.0-1.0 mm sheets were spot welded to prepare samples. These spot-welded joints were then exposed to uniaxial tensile test, and tensile-shear and tensile-peel forces prior to breaking were determined. In addition, microstructures were detected by SEM and micro-hardness was measured from different regions of resistance spot-welded samples and recommendations showing the optimum welding parameters were given to users. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0189-0 Authors Ugur Ozsarac, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Technology Faculty, Sakarya University, Sakarya, Turkey Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Strain aging and hardening behaviors of a 304 stainless steel containing deformation-induced martensite were investigated by examining mechanical properties and microstructural evolution for different aging temperature and time. Introduced age hardening mechanisms of a cold rolled 304 stainless steel were the additional formation of α′-martensite, hardening of α′-martensite, and hardening of deformed austenite. The increased amount of α′-martensite at an aging temperature of 450 °C confirmed the additional formation of α′-martensite as a hardening mechanism in a cold rolled 304 stainless steel. Additionally, the increased hardness in both α′-martensite and austenite phases with aging temperature proved that hardening of both α′-martensite and austenite phases would be effective as hardening mechanisms in cold rolled and aged 304 stainless steels. The results suggested that among hardening mechanisms, hardening of an α′-martensite phase, including the diffusion of interstitial solute carbon atoms to dislocations and the precipitation of fine carbide particles would become a major hardening mechanism during aging of cold rolled 304 stainless steels. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0186-3 Authors S. W. Jeong, School of Advanced Material Engineering, Kookmin University, 861-1 Jeongneung-Dong, Songbuk-Ku, Seoul, 136-702 Republic of Korea U. G. Kang, School of Advanced Material Engineering, Kookmin University, 861-1 Jeongneung-Dong, Songbuk-Ku, Seoul, 136-702 Republic of Korea J. Y. Choi, Stainless Steel Research Group, POSCO Technical Research Laboratories, POSCO, P.O. Box 36, Pohang, 790-785 Republic of Korea W. J. Nam, School of Advanced Material Engineering, Kookmin University, 861-1 Jeongneung-Dong, Songbuk-Ku, Seoul, 136-702 Republic of Korea Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This study investigates the microstructure, electrical, corrosion, and mechanical properties of plate-shaped aluminum-copper couple produced using the explosive welding method. Mechanical tests, including hardness, tensile, tensile-shear, and impact test, concluded that the Al-Cu bimetal had an acceptable joint resistance. In this study, local intermetallic regions formed on the interface of the joint of the aluminum-copper bimetal, produced using the explosive welding technique. However, the formed intermetallic regions had no significant effect on the mechanical properties of the joint, except for increasing its hardness. According to electrical conductivity tests, the Al-Cu bimetal had an average electrical conductivity in comparison to the electrical conductivity of aluminum and copper, which were the original materials forming the joint. According to the results of electro-chemical corrosion test, during which galvanic corrosion formed, the Al side of the Al-Cu bimetal was more anodic due to its high electronegativity; as a result, it was exposed to more corrosion in comparison to the copper side. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-5 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0203-6 Authors Mustafa Acarer, Technical Education Faculty, Karabuk University, 78100 Karabuk, Turkey Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Ti and its alloys are widely used in manufacturing orthopedic implants as prostheses for joint replacement because of their high corrosion resistance and excellent biocompatibility. However, they lack in bone-bonding ability and leads to higher rate of osteolysis and subsequent loosening of implants. In order to enhance the bone-bonding ability of these alloys, various surface-modification techniques are generally employed. The present investigation is mainly concerned with the surface modification of Cp-Ti and Ti-5Al-2Nb-1Ta alloy using a mixture of alkali and hydrogen peroxide followed by subsequent heat treatment to produce a porous gel layer with anatase structure, which enhances osseointegration. The morphological behavior was examined by x-ray diffractometer (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX). The in vitro characterization of all the specimens was evaluated by immersing the specimens in simulated body fluid solution to assess the apatite formation over the metal surface. The apatite formation was confirmed by XRD, SEM-EDX, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Further, the electrochemical corrosion behaviors of both the untreated and treated specimens were evaluated using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results revealed that the surface-modified and heat-treated specimens exhibited higher corrosion resistance and excellent biocompatibility when compared to the chemical and untreated specimens. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0143-1 Authors Y. Sasikumar, Department of Chemistry, Anna University, Chennai, 600 025 India N. Rajendran, Department of Chemistry, Anna University, Chennai, 600 025 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This study investigates the mechanical properties of Al-7Si-0.3Mg (A356) alloy affected by the spinning deformation processing (SDP). The cast structure of the A356 alloy becomes elongated with increasing reduction in thickness. This leads to reduction of casting defects, and refines and distributes the eutectic silicon phase throughout the Al-matrix. The hardness tends to reach a steady value due to the uniformity of the microstructure with the reduction in thickness. The SDP leads to a re-arrangement in the eutectic region, which forces the propagation of cracks through the ductile α-Al phase. The tensile strength and elongation increases accordingly. The improvement on tensile strength and elongation produces the best quality index for A356 alloy. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-011-0089-8 Authors Yin-Chun Cheng, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Central University, No. 300, Jhongda Rd., Jhongli City, Taoyuan County 32001, Taiwan, ROC Chih-Kuang Lin, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Central University, No. 300, Jhongda Rd., Jhongli City, Taoyuan County 32001, Taiwan, ROC An-Hung Tan, Department of Mechanical Engineering Ching-Yun University, No. 229, Jianxing Rd., Zhongli City, Taoyuan County 32097, Taiwan, ROC Shih-Yuan Hsu, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Central University, No. 300, Jhongda Rd., Jhongli City, Taoyuan County 32001, Taiwan, ROC Sheng-Long Lee, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Central University, No. 300, Jhongda Rd., Jhongli City, Taoyuan County 32001, Taiwan, ROC Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Alumina ceramic foams have been infiltrated with an Al-10 Mg alloy, by a capillarity-driven process, to create interpenetrating composites. Infiltration maps are presented for three different foam types which depict the temperature and time required for successful infiltration. The Young’s modulus of “fully” infiltrated composites containing approximately 18, 25, and 36 vol.% ceramic were measured and found to be 96, 110, and 124 GPa, respectively. Porosimetry of the foams revealed a significant fraction of closed porosity within the cell walls, the quantity of which increases with foam density, which accounts for the lower density and stiffness values that were measured, compared with those predicted by a simple model. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0147-x Authors R. Gil, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Venezuela A. R. Kennedy, Manufacturing Research Group, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD UK Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    A combination of the transverse tensile test and the unilaterally coupled finite element method was used to evaluate the interfacial normal bond strength and stress distribution of titanium matrix composites (TMCs). In addition, in order to identify the interface shear failure mode of TMCs under transverse loading, both the push-out test and the finite element method have been developed to characterize the interfacial shear strength of TMCs, which is the interfacial shear failure criterion. This article studies the results of the experiments, which suggested that the interfacial normal bond and shear strength of SiC f /Ti-6Al-4V were 300 and 350 MPa, respectively, and the interface failure mode of TMCs under the transverse tensile test was radial failure rather than shear failure. Moreover, the effect of residual stress on the radial stress is also discussed in detail in this article. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-5 DOI 10.1007/s11665-011-0094-y Authors Xu Yanfang, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051 People’s Republic of China Su Tiexiong, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051 People’s Republic of China Yuan Meini, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051 People’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In the present work, cladding of hardfacing WC10Co2Ni powder on austenitic stainless steel has been developed through a novel processing technique. The clads were developed using microwave hybrid heating. The clad of average thickness ~2 mm has been developed through the exposure of microwave radiation at frequency 2.45 GHz and power 900 W for the duration of 360 s. The developed clads were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscope, X-ray elemental analysis, X-ray diffraction, and measurement of Vicker’s microhardness. The microstructure study of the clad showed good metallurgical bonding with substrate and revealed that clads are free from any visible interface cracking. Clads were formed with partial dilution of a thin layer of the substrate. The cermet microstructure mainly consists of relatively soft metallic matrix phase and uniformly distributed hard carbide phase with skeleton-like structure. The developed clads exhibit an average microhardness of 1064 ± 99 Hv. The porosity of developed clad has been significantly less at approximately 0.89%. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0142-2 Authors Dheeraj Gupta, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667 India Apurbba Kumar Sharma, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The purpose of this test was to evaluate the effects of calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) and sodium chloride (NaCl)—two common substances used to de-ice roadways—on the corrosion and fatigue behavior of annealed AISI 4140 steel. When CMA-corroded, NaCl-corroded, and as-machined samples were tested using R  = 0.1, and f  = 20 Hz, it was found that, within the scope of this study, samples corroded in both 3.5% CMA solution and 3.5% NaCl solution exhibited a lower fatigue strength than samples tested in the as-machined, uncorroded condition. For the short lives tested in this study, the difference in the effects of CMA and NaCl is minimal. However, at longer lives it is suspected, based on the trends, that the CMA solution would be less detrimental to the fatigue life. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-5 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0167-6 Authors William P. Dean, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA Brittain J. Sanford, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA Matthew R. Wright, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA Jeffrey L. Evans, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In the present investigation, the correlation of composition-processing-property for TC11 titanium alloy was established using principal component analysis (PCA) and artificial neural network (ANN) based on the experimental datasets obtained from the forging experiments. During the PCA step, the feature vector is extracted by calculating the eigenvalue of correlation coefficient matrix for training dataset, and the dimension of input variables is reduced from 11 to 6 features. Thus, PCA offers an efficient method to characterize the data with a high degree of dimensionality reduction. During the ANN step, the principal components were chosen as the input parameters and the mechanical properties as the output parameters, including the ultimate tensile strength ( \upsigma \text b ), yield strength ( \upsigma 0.2 ), elongation ( \updelta ), and reduction of area (φ). The training of ANN model was conducted using back-propagation learning algorithm. The results clearly present ideal agreement between the predicted value of PCA-ANN model and experimental value, indicating that the established model is a powerful tool to construct the correlation of composition-processing-property for TC11 titanium alloy. More importantly, the integrated method of PCA and ANN is also able to be utilized as the mechanical property prediction for the other alloys. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0162-y Authors Yu Sun, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, 710072 People’s Republic of China Weidong Zeng, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, 710072 People’s Republic of China Yongqing Zhao, Northwest Institute for Nonferrous Metal Research, Xi’an, 710016 People’s Republic of China Yitao Shao, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, 710072 People’s Republic of China Yigang Zhou, State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, 710072 People’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The forming limit diagram (FLD) is a useful method for characterizing the formability of sheet metals. In this article, different numerical models were used to investigate the FLD of tailor-welded blank (TWB). TWBs were CO 2 laser-welded samples of interstitial-free (IF) steel sheets with difference in thickness. The results of the numerical models were compared with the experimental FLD as well as with the empirical model proposed by the North American Deep Drawing Research Group. The emphasis of this investigation is to determine the performance of these different approaches in predicting the FLD. These numerical models for FLD are: second derivative of thinning (SDT), effective strain rate (ESR), major strain rate (MSR), thickness strain rate (TSR), and thickness gradient (TG). Results of this research show necking will be happened, when the value of MSR, TSR, ESR criteria is maximum, TG ≤ 0.78 and SDT criterion has the first peak in forming process time. The value of dome height of TWB samples at failure was predicted based on the numerical models for samples with different widths. These numerical predictions were compared with the experimental results. The SDT model indicates a better agreement with experimental results in prediction of both the FLD and the limit dome height (LDH) in comparison to the other numerical models. Both numerical and experimental results show that minimum of LDH is happened in plane strain condition. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0156-9 Authors Rasoul Safdarian Korouyeh, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal Ale Ahmad Highway, P.O. Box 14115-143, Tehran, Iran Hassan Moslemi Naeini, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal Ale Ahmad Highway, P.O. Box 14115-143, Tehran, Iran Gholamhosein Liaghat, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal Ale Ahmad Highway, P.O. Box 14115-143, Tehran, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This article describes attempts to characterize by standardized tests of tile materials used in the construction area the performance-based properties of foamed glass samples with novel glass coatings. New glass coated foam glass (Foamglas ® ) insulating tiles have been tested by several standard tests (UNI Iso, ASTM) to define their suitability for energy saving buildings: impact tests, thermal shock resistance, wear resistance, water absorption, frost resistance, resistance to stains. Except for impact tests, glass coated foam glass (Foamglas ® ) satisfied all the requirements above, resulting to be thermal shock resistant, according to Uni Iso 10545-9 (Al spheres); effective to reduce the pristine Foamglas ® surface water absorption, according to Uni En 1609:1999 and 12087:1999; frost resistant, according to Uni Iso 10545-12 and class 5 towards olive oil, according to Uni Iso 10545-14. Wear tests and hot water corrosion behavior tests have been done on the proposed coating and on a commercial soda-lime glass: the glass coated foam glass resulted to be suitable where corrosion and wear resistance are not a concern. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0164-9 Authors Andrea Ventrella, Materials Science and Chemical Engineering Department, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca Degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy Federico Smeacetto, Materials Science and Chemical Engineering Department, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca Degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy Milena Salvo, Materials Science and Chemical Engineering Department, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca Degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy Monica Ferraris, Materials Science and Chemical Engineering Department, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca Degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In order to produce shape memory rings for constrained-recovery pipe couplings, from Fe-14 Mn-6 Si-9 Cr-5 Ni (mass%) powders, the main technological steps were (i) mechanical alloying, (ii) sintering, (iii) hot rolling, (iv) hot-shape setting, and (v) thermomechanical training. The article generally describes, within its experimental-procedure section, the last four technological steps of this process the primary purpose of which has been to accurately control both chemical composition and the grain size of shape memory rings. Details of the results obtained in the first technological step, on raw powders employed both in an initial commercial state and in a mixture state of commercial and mechanically alloyed (MA) powders, which were subjected to several heating-cooling cycles have been reported and discussed. By means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), the thermal behaviors of the two sample powders have been analyzed. The effects of the heating-cooling cycles, on raw commercial powders and on 50% MA powders, respectively, were argued from the point of view of specific temperatures and heat variations, of elemental diffusion after thermal cycling and of crystallographic parameters, determined by DSC, SEM, and XRD, respectively. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0168-5 Authors B. Pricop, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, The “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University from Iaşi, Bd. D. Mangeron 61A, 700050 Iasi, Romania U. Söyler, Particulate Materials Laboratory, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Department, Istanbul Technical University, 34469 Maslak, Istanbul, Turkey N. M. Lohan, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, The “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University from Iaşi, Bd. D. Mangeron 61A, 700050 Iasi, Romania B. Özkal, Particulate Materials Laboratory, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Department, Istanbul Technical University, 34469 Maslak, Istanbul, Turkey L. G. Bujoreanu, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, The “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University from Iaşi, Bd. D. Mangeron 61A, 700050 Iasi, Romania D. Chicet, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, The “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University from Iaşi, Bd. D. Mangeron 61-63, 700050 Iasi, Romania C. Munteanu, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, The “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University from Iaşi, Bd. D. Mangeron 61-63, 700050 Iasi, Romania Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Laser cladding of tungsten carbide (WC) on stainless steels 13Cr-4Ni and AISI 304 substrates has been performed using high power diode laser. The cladded stainless steels were characterized for microstructural changes, hardness, solid particle erosion resistance and corrosion behavior. Resistance of the clad to solid particle erosion was evaluated using alumina particles according to ASTM G76 and corrosion behavior was studied by employing the anodic polarization and open circuit potential measurement in 3.5% NaCl solution and tap water. The hardness of laser cladded AISI 304 and 13Cr-4Ni stainless steel was increased up to 815 and 725Hv 100 g , respectively. The erosion resistance of the modified surface was improved significantly such that the erosion rate of cladded AISI 304 (at 114 W/mm 2 ) was observed ~0.74 mg/cm 2 /h as compared to ~1.16 and 0.97 mg/cm 2 /h for untreated AISI 304 and 13Cr-4Ni, respectively. Laser cladding of both the stainless steels, however, reduced the corrosion resistance in both NaCl and tap water. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0170-y Authors Raghuvir Singh, CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur, 831007 India Mukesh Kumar, CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur, 831007 India Deepak Kumar, CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur, 831007 India Suman K. Mishra, CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur, 831007 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Copper-graphite composite is an important tribological material used in electrical sliding contact applications like electrical brushes in motors and generators. The electrical sliding contact experiences multiple stresses such as mechanical pressure and temperature. Traditional life tests under normal operating condition would be a time-consuming process due to the longer expected life of the composite. Accelerated wear testing was carried out to evaluate the life characteristics of the composite. This work focuses on evaluation of tribological performance of microwave-sintered copper-graphite composite using accelerated wear testing methodology using high temperature pin-on-disc tribometer. Microstructural studies of worn out surfaces were carried out using SEM with EDAX. Reliability and analysis on life characteristics were performed on the time-to-failure data using temperature-nonthermal-accelerated life-stress model. The obtained times-to-failure data from the accelerated wear testing was extrapolated to normal usage condition. Temperature and pressure are significantly affecting the wear performance. Self-lubricating action of graphite and improvement in wear resistance is helpful in extending the life of copper graphite composite. The life of the composite obtained through testing at mean and 99% reliability are 18,725 and 16,950 h, respectively. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0161-z Authors K. Rajkumar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi, New Delhi, 110016 India S. Aravindan, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi, New Delhi, 110016 India M. S. Kulkarni, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi, New Delhi, 110016 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Cobalt-based alloys of the Stellite family are used as hardfacing for sealing surfaces of valves operating in desalination and power plants because of their excellent low friction and anti-galling properties in high-load sliding contact under the prevailing conditions. However, insufficient control of pressure and temperature during operation can degrade the integrity of the hardfaced material thus leading to its premature failure. This article presents a failure investigation carried out on the disk of a main stop gate valve that was used in a desalination plant. The disk was manufactured from X20 as a substrate material and a cobalt-based alloy for hardfacing. The cobalt-based hardfacing suffered from many surface and subsurface cracks that degraded its integrity. It was concluded that high-pressure steam flowing against the disk had tilted it and, thus, disturbed the alignment between the surfaces of the disk and the seat, leading to wear and large frictional heat that resulted in the degradation of the microstructure of the hardfacing layer and formation of the observed cracks. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0413-y Authors A. Almazrouee, Manufacturing Engineering Technology Department, College of Technological Studies, PAAET, P.O. Box 42325, 70654 Shuwaikh, Kuwait S. Al-Faheed, Power Plant, Ministry of Electricity and Water, Kuwait City, Kuwait H. M. Shalaby, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, P.O. Box 24885, 13109 Safat, Kuwait Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this work, a high-energy planetary mill was used to modify the chemical stability of indium-bearing zinc ferrite (indium-bearing ZnFe 2 O 4 , IBZF) and improve indium and zinc leachabilities. The microstructures, morphologies, and leaching characteristics of IBZF samples milled under different milling conditions were investigated by particle size analysis, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller specific surface area analysis, x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, Mössbauer spectrometry, and leaching experiments. The results show that the planetary ball milling has obvious effects on the microstructure and leaching characteristic of IBZF. Increasing the rotation speed and milling time cause the increase in the specific surface area, structure defects, and the breakage of the crystalline network, which result in a significant increase of indium and zinc extractions. In particular, the changes of crystal lattice structure induced by planetary ball milling play a key role in improving indium and zinc leachabilities from IBZF. The planetary ball milling also results in the redistribution of Zn 2+ and Fe 3+ in IBZF. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0352-7 Authors J. H. Yao, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 People’s Republic of China X. H. Li, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 People’s Republic of China L. P. Pan, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 People’s Republic of China J. M. Mo, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 People’s Republic of China Z. P. Wen, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 People’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This paper discusses the application of rapid solidification by the melt-spinning method for the preparation of thin NiTi-based ribbons. Generally, the application of rapid solidification via melt-spinning can change the microstructure, improving the ductility and shape memory characteristics and lead to small-dimensioned samples. Several thousand thermal cycles were performed on the trained ribbons using bending deformation procedure, continuously observing the changes in the shape memory and transformation behaviors. These changes are due to the appearance of an intermediate phase which was stabilized probably by the accumulation of defects introduced by thermomechanical training. The influence of training and thermal cycling on characteristics of ribbons was studied by x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The results displayed that bending training methods were useful in developing a two-way shape memory effect (TWSME). All samples show a shape memory effect immediately after processing without further heat treatment. The addition of copper in NiTi alloys was effective to narrow the transformation hysteresis. The W addition has improved the stability of the TWSME and mechanical properties. The TWSME of ribbons and its stability are well suited for important applications such as microsensors and microactuators. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0379-9 Authors K. Mehrabi, Department of Physical Metallurgy and Materials Testing, University of Leoben, Leoben, Austria M. Bruncko, Department of Physical Metallurgy and Materials Testing, University of Leoben, Leoben, Austria A. C. Kneissl, Department of Physical Metallurgy and Materials Testing, University of Leoben, Leoben, Austria Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Superelastic NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) has high recoverable strain and outstanding damping capacity, and has been used as a damping material for many applications. When subjected to displacement-controlled cyclic deformation, the material exhibits distinctive temperature and stress oscillations due to the release of latent heat and hysteresis heat and the heat transfer with the ambient. In this paper, we establish a model to predict the temperature variation of NiTi SMA wire specimen under the cyclic phase transition by lumped heat transfer analysis. Closed-form solution on the evolution of the temperature is obtained. It is shown that, for all the test frequencies, steady-state cyclic thermal response of the specimen can be reached after a certain number of loading cycles in a transient stage, exhibiting a kind of “thermal shake down.” In the steady state, the temperature profile oscillates around a mean temperature plateau. We show that the temperature oscillation is mainly due to the release/absorption of latent heat during cyclic phase transition, while the mean temperature rise of the specimen is caused by the accumulation of the hysteretic heat of the phase transition. The model predictions agree well with the experimental results. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-4 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0395-9 Authors Hao Yin, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China Qingping Sun, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The spray-deposited SiCp/Al-20Si-3Cu functionally graded material (FGM) can meet the structure design requirements of brake disk. The effects of rotational speed and load on the wear and friction behaviors of the SiCp/Al-20Si-3Cu FGM sliding against the resin matrix friction material were investigated. For comparison, the wear and friction behaviors of a commercially used cast iron (HT250) brake rotor were also studied. The results indicate that the friction coefficient of the SiCp/Al-20Si-3Cu FGM decreases constantly with the increase of load or rotational speed and is affected by the gradient distribution of SiC particles. The wear rate of the SiCp/Al-20Si-3Cu FGM firstly increases, then decreases and finally increases again with increasing load or speed, and is about 1/10 of that of HT250. Based on observations and analyses on the morphology and substructure of the worn surface, the mechanical mixing layer acts as a protective coating and lubricant, and its thickness reduces with the SiC content increasing. Furthermore, it is proposed that the dominant wear mechanism of SiCp/Al-20Si-3Cu FGM changes from the abrasive wear to the oxidative wear and further to the delamination wear with increasing load or speed. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0409-7 Authors B. Su, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 Hunan, People’s Republic of China H. G. Yan, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 Hunan, People’s Republic of China J. H. Chen, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 Hunan, People’s Republic of China P. L. Zeng, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 Hunan, People’s Republic of China G. Chen, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 Hunan, People’s Republic of China C. C. Chen, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082 Hunan, People’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This research aims to explore magnetomechanical effect as a nondestructive method to monitor the failure process of steel structural elements subjected to compressive loadings. Experiments on steel tubular joints were carried out to study the relationship between the applied load and the magnetomechanical field. Results show that the mechanical response and the magnetomechanical response demonstrate similar behavior to the applied load in the whole loading progress. At the critical load of buckling, the load-magnetic field curve has a bifurcation point corresponding to the traditional bifurcation of load-displacement curve. This research demonstrates that the stress-induced magnetic filed can be utilized as an important indicator of impending failure in steel structural elements. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-4 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0410-1 Authors Sheng Bao, Institute of Structural Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058 Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China Fan Xu, Institute of Structural Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058 Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China Jiyang Wang, Institute of Structural Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058 Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China Hangfei Lou, Institute of Structural Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058 Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description: Strain-Controlled Low-Cycle Fatigue Properties of Extruded 6061-T6 Aluminum Alloy Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-3 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0411-0 Authors A. T. Brammer, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, USA J. B. Jordon, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, USA P. G. Allison, Engineering Research and Development Center, Army Corp of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS 39180, USA M. E. Barkey, Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this article, a fatigue damage parameter is proposed to assess the multiaxial fatigue lives of ductile metals based on the critical plane concept: Fatigue crack initiation is controlled by the maximum shear strain, and the other important effect in the fatigue damage process is the normal strain and stress. This fatigue damage parameter introduces a stress-correlated factor, which describes the degree of the non-proportional cyclic hardening. Besides, a three-parameter multiaxial fatigue criterion is used to correlate the fatigue lifetime of metallic materials with the proposed damage parameter. Under the uniaxial loading, this three-parameter model reduces to the recently developed Zhang’s model for predicting the uniaxial fatigue crack initiation life. The accuracy and reliability of this three-parameter model are checked against the experimental data found in literature through testing six different ductile metals under various strain paths with zero/non-zero mean stress. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0197-0 Authors Jia Liu, The Science Institute, Air Force Engineering University, East Chang Le Road, Xi’an, 710051 China Jing Li, The Science Institute, Air Force Engineering University, East Chang Le Road, Xi’an, 710051 China Zhong-ping Zhang, The Science Institute, Air Force Engineering University, East Chang Le Road, Xi’an, 710051 China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This article reports about the tests carried to investigate microbial-induced corrosion on stainless steels due to sulfate-reducing bacteria sp. Desulfotomaculum nigrificans in different host media. Stainless steel 304L, 316L, and 2205 were selected for the test. Modified Baar’s media (BM), sodium chloride solution, and artificial sea water (SW) were used as test solutions in anaerobic conditions. Electrochemical polarization and immersion test were performed to estimate the extent of corrosion rate and pitting on stainless steels. SEM/EDS were used to study the details inside/outside pits formed on the corroded samples. Biofilm formed on corroded coupons was analyzed for its components by UV/Visible spectroscopy. Corrosion attack on the test samples was observed maximum in case of exposure to SW followed by NaCl solution, both having sulfide and chloride whereas stainless steel exposed to BM, having sulfide, showed minimum attack. Tendency of extracellular polymeric substances to bind metal ions is observed to be responsible for governing the extent of corrosion attack. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0384-z Authors Suman Lata, Materials Science Group, Department of Paper Technology, IIT, Roorkee, Saharanpur Campus, Saharanpur, 247001 India Chhaya Sharma, Materials Science Group, Department of Paper Technology, IIT, Roorkee, Saharanpur Campus, Saharanpur, 247001 India Ajay K. Singh, Materials Science Group, Department of Paper Technology, IIT, Roorkee, Saharanpur Campus, Saharanpur, 247001 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Inclusions content is important for the mechanical behavior and performances of NiTi-based products particularly in fatigue-rated devices. Higher inclusions content has been correlated to reductions in transformation temperatures and strain recovery under mechanical or thermo-mechanical cycling. Moreover, most fatigue fractures show inclusions at the initiation site. However, there is a general lack of information on the nature and characteristics of such inclusions, especially those typically recognized as intermetallics oxides. In this study, the common scanning electron microscopy technique has been used to investigate the chemistry and morphology of inclusions in commercial standard VIM/VAR binary NiTi alloys. The defined experimental procedure, results, and their significance will be presented and discussed. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0366-1 Authors A. Coda, SAES Getters S.p.A, Lainate, MI, Italy S. Zilio, SAES Getters S.p.A, Lainate, MI, Italy D. Norwich, Memry Corporation, Bethel, CT, USA F. Sczerzenie, SAES Smart Materials, New Hartford, NY, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The aim of this work was to form NiTi and TiNiCo body temperature activated and superelastic staples for clinical joining of mandible and face bone fractures. The alloys were obtained by VIM technique. Hot and cold processing was applied to obtain wires of required diameters. The martensitic transformation was studied by DSC, XRD, and TEM. The shape memory effects were measured by a bend and free recovery ASTM F2082-06 test. The superelasticity was recorded in the tension stress-strain and by the three-point bending cycles in an instrument equipped with a Hottinger force transducer and LVDT. Excellent superelastic behavior of TiNiCo wires was obtained after cold working and annealing at 400-500 °C. The body temperature activated shape memory staples were applied for fixation of mandibular condyle fractures. In experiments on the skull models, fixation of the facial fractures by using shape memory and superelastic staples were compared. The superelastic staples were used in osteosynthesis of zygomatico-maxillo-orbital fractures. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0372-3 Authors Z. Lekston, Institute of Materials Science, University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland D. Stróż, Institute of Materials Science, University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland M. Jędrusik-Pawłowska, Department of Skull and Maxillofacial Surgery, Silesian Medical University, Katowice, Poland Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    An investigation was carried out to examine the influence of structural and mechanical properties on wear behavior of austempered ductile iron (ADI). Ductile iron (DI) samples were austenitized at 900 °C for 60 min and subsequently austempered for 60 min at three temperatures: 270, 330, and 380 °C. Microstructures of the as-cast DI and ADIs were characterized using optical and scanning microscopy, respectively. The structural parameters, volume fraction of austenite, carbon content of austenite, and ferrite particle size were determined using x-ray diffraction technique. Mechanical properties including Vicker’s hardness, 0.2% proof strength, ultimate tensile strength, ductility, and strain hardening coefficient were determined. Wear tests were carried out under dry sliding conditions using pin-on-disk machine with a linear speed of 2.4 m/s. Normal load and sliding distance were 45 N and 1.7 × 10 4  m, respectively. ADI developed at higher austempering temperature has large amounts of austenite, which contribute toward improvement in the wear resistance through stress-induced martensitic transformation, and strain hardening of austenite. Wear rate was found to depend on 0.2% proof strength, ductility, austenite content, and its carbon content. Study of worn surfaces and nature of wear debris revealed that the fine ausferrite structure in ADIs undergoes oxidational wear, but the coarse ausferrite structure undergoes adhesion, delamination, and mild abrasion too. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0380-3 Authors Uma Batra, Department of Materials & Metallurgical Engineering, PEC University of Technology, Chandigarh, India Nimish Batra, Mechanical Engineering Department, Thapar University, Patiala, 147004 Punjab, India J. D. Sharma, Department of Materials & Metallurgical Engineering, PEC University of Technology, Chandigarh, India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Finding the geometry and properties of a ceramic tile after its firing using simulations, is relevant because several defects can occur and the tile can be rejected if the conditions of the firing are inadequate for the geometry and materials of the tile. Previous works present limitations because they do not use a model characteristic of ceramics at high temperatures and they oversimplify the simulations. As a response to such shortcomings, this article presents a simulation with a three-dimensional Norton’s model, which is characteristic of ceramics at high temperatures. The results of our simulated experiments show advantages with respect to the identification of the mechanisms that contribute to the final shape of the body. Our work is able to divide the history of temperatures in stages where the evolution of the thermal, elastic, and creep deformations is simplified and meaningful. That is achieved because our work found that curvature is the most descriptive parameter of the simulation. Future work is to be realized in the creation of a model that takes into account that the shrinkage is dependent on the history of temperatures. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0354-5 Authors Guillermo Peris-Fajarnés, Centro de Investigación en Tecnologías Gráficas, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain Beatriz Defez, Centro de Investigación en Tecnologías Gráficas, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain Ricardo Serrano, CAD CAM CAE Laboratory, Universidad EAFIT, Medellín, Colombia Oscar E. Ruiz, CAD CAM CAE Laboratory, Universidad EAFIT, Medellín, Colombia Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Ultrafine β-silicon carbide (β-SiC) powders were successfully synthesized by carbothermal-reduction reaction (CRR) of sepiolite. Sepiolite of Turkish deposits as a silica (SiO 2 ) precursor and carbon black as a reducing agent were mixed with constant C/SiO 2 molar ratio of 4. Mixed powders were subjected to CRR at temperatures of 1450, 1500, and 1550 °C for 1 h in an atmosphere-controlled tube furnace under argon flow of 5 cm 3 /min. The precursor and resultant powder products were characterized by XRD, SEM, and EDX. Phase transformation was observed in powder products after CRR as a function of the reaction temperature. The results show that the cotton-like nature of sepiolite makes it an effective mineral precursor for synthesis of SiC powders, and that SiC transformation was optimized at 1550 °C with a particle size of approximately 200 nm. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0300-6 Authors Cengiz Bağci, Department of Machine and Metal Technologies, Vocational High School of Akdağmadeni, Bozok University, 66300 Yozgat, Turkey Halil Arik, Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Technology, Gazi University, 06500 Ankara, Turkey Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Ni-free Ti-based shape memory alloys (SMAs) are increasingly recognized as promising functional materials for medical applications. The mechanical properties of these metastable Ti-based SMAs are sensitive to aging and thermomechanical treatment. Effects of severe plastic deformation (SPD)-equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) and aging on superelastic behavior of Ni-free Ti-based SMAs, Ti-9.8Mo-3.9Nb-2V-3.1Al wt.% (TMNVA) and Ti-25at.%Nb, have been investigated. The results show that the yielding strength of TMNVA alloy increases sharply with the number of ECAP processes—to greater than 1,400 MPa after two passes ECAP—but elongation of TMNVA alloy decreases severely and the plasticity is lost completely after two passes ECAP. Both ECAP process and flash annealing treatment have weak contribution to the superelastic recoverable strains of Ti-Mo-based alloy. For Ti-25at.%Nb alloy, after one pass ECAP process at 400 °C, the yielding stress increases obviously, and the recovery strain increases a little. With the further increase in the number of ECAP processes, the yielding stress and the recovery strain change little. Aging treatment at low temperature after ECAP process is in favor of superelasticity of Ti-25at.%Nb alloy. An almost completely recoverable strain of 1.5% is obtained in Ti-25at.%Nb alloy after two passes ECAP and aging at 300 °C for 1 h. The mechanisms of the effects of SPD and aging are also discussed. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0391-0 Authors Jie Song, State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240 China Xiaoning Zhang, State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240 China Chaoying Xie, State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240 China Liming Wang, Jiangsu Fasten Company Limited, Jiangying, Jiangshu, China M. H. Wu, Advanced Materials Technology, Edwards Life Sciences LLC, Irvine, CA, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Medical device fractures during gamma and electron beam (eBeam) sterilization have been reported. Two common factors in these device fractures were a constraining force and the presence of fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP). This study investigated the effects of eBeam sterilization on constrained light-oxide nitinol wires in FEP. The goal was to recreate these fractures and determine their root cause. Superelastic nitinol wires were placed inside FEP tubes and constrained with nominal outer fiber strains of 10, 15, and 20%. These samples were then subjected to a range of eBeam sterilization doses up to 400 kGy and compared with unconstrained wires also subjected to sterilization. Fractures were observed at doses of 〉100 kGy. Analysis of the fracture surfaces indicated that the samples failed due to irradiation-assisted stress-corrosion cracking (IASCC). This same effect was also observed to occur with PTFE at 400 kGy. These results suggest that nitinol is susceptible to IASCC when in the presence of a constraining stress, fluorinated polymers, and irradiation. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-5 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0396-8 Authors Stuart A. Smith, Metallurgical Solutions, Redwood City, CA, USA Brock Gause, Nutek Corporation, Hayward, CA, USA David Plumley, Fort Wayne Metals, Fort Wayne, IN, USA Masao J. Drexel, Confirmd LLC, Redwood City, CA, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Currently, with the increasing demand of high production output, much attention is paid to the research and development of multi-hole extrusion die. However, owing to the complexity of multi-hole porthole extrusion technology, it has not been applied widely in practice for the production of aluminum profiles, especially for porthole die with an odd number of die orifices. The purpose of this study is to design a three-hole porthole die for producing an aluminum tube and to optimize the location of die orifices based on computer-aided design and engineering. First, three-hole extrusion dies for different locations of die orifices are designed. Then, extrusion processes with different multi-hole porthole dies are simulated by means of HyperXtrude. Through numerical simulation, metal flow, temperature distribution, welding pressure, extrusion load, and die stress, etc. could be obtained, and the effects of the location of die orifices on extrusion process are investigated. With the increasing distance between die orifice and extrusion center (described as eccentricity ratio), metal flow becomes nonhomogeneous, and twisting or bending deformation of profile occurs, but the welding pressure rises, which improves the welding quality of profiles. However, the required extrusion force, billet and die temperature, die displacement, and stress induce no significant changes. In comparison with the extrusion force during single-hole porthole extrusion, there is 18.5% decrease of extrusion force during three-hole porthole extrusion. Finally, design rules for this kind of multi-hole extrusion dies are summarized. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0405-y Authors Cunsheng Zhang, Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, 250061 Shandong, People’s Republic of China Guoqun Zhao, Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, 250061 Shandong, People’s Republic of China Hao Chen, Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, 250061 Shandong, People’s Republic of China Yanjin Guan, Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, 250061 Shandong, People’s Republic of China Haijin Cai, Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), Shandong University, Jinan, 250061 Shandong, People’s Republic of China Baojie Gao, CSR Qingdao Sifang Co., Ltd, Qingdao, 266111 Shandong, People’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Metallic tie-rods are currently used in many historical buildings for absorbing the out-of-plane horizontal forces of arches, vaults and roof trusses, despite they exhibit several limitations under service and seismic conditions. In this paper, a post-tensioned system based on the superelastic properties of Ni-Ti shape memory alloys is proposed for improving the structural performances of traditional metallic tie-rods. First, the thermal behavior under service conditions is investigated based on the results of numerical and experimental studies. Subsequently, the seismic performances under strong earthquakes are verified trough a number of shaking table tests on a 1:4-scale timber roof truss model. The outcomes of these studies fully confirm the achievement of the design objectives of the proposed prototype device. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0414-x Authors Donatello Cardone, University of Basilicata, Viale dell’Ateneo Lucano 10, Potenza, Italy Salvatore Sofia, University of Basilicata, Viale dell’Ateneo Lucano 10, Potenza, Italy Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    High performance friction systems, e.g., dry clutches and brakes, require a good wear resistance and a friction coefficient that is nearly independent from sliding velocity and environmental conditions. Organic-based friction materials have reached their limitations regarding higher power densities. Engineering ceramics such as alumina (Al 2 O 3 ) or silicon carbide (SiC) offer a great potential since remarkably higher thermal and mechanical loading is possible. However, the tribological performance of these monolithic ceramics is still insufficient. The aim of the present study was to assess the potential of a laser-assisted surface modification process in order to improve the tribological performance with regard to the application in dry friction systems. Therefore, commercially available alumina was modified using a newly developed laser-assisted preheating process and subsequent melting of the ceramic’s surface using a CO 2 -laser and modification by additives such as TiC, TiN, B 4 C, WC, ZrB 2 , Cr, Ni, Cu, and Ti. A systematic variation of additives and process parameters led to different multiphase microstructures. Subsequently, these were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and surface analysis methods (wavelength dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy). Finally, the tribological properties were investigated using a laboratory tribometer. The surface-modified ceramics were tested in unidirectional sliding motion against steel disks. The tribological results of the surface-modified ceramics were compared to those of monolithic Al 2 O 3 and SiC ceramics and showed a reduced dependence of friction coefficient on sliding velocity. Moreover, the multi-phase ceramics possessed a higher wear resistance than the monolithic ones. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0215-2 Authors R. Wallstabe, BAM Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, Unter den Eichen 87, 12200 Berlin, Germany Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The aim of the study was to evaluate the accuracy of heat treatment guidelines, generally followed in industrial practices, about the T6 heat treatment of A356 aluminum alloy. In particular, the effect of the delay between quenching and artificial aging (pre-aging time) on microstructure, hardness, and tensile behavior was studied using specimens extracted from different locations of a cylinder head, characterized by different cooling rates and, consequently, by different secondary dendrite arm spacing values. Hardness and tensile tests confirmed the detrimental effect of pre-aging with a 20% reduction in hardness and strength after approximately 1 h of pre-aging, both for samples with fine and large SDAS. Differential scanning calorimetry analyses on samples that were solutionized, quenched, and pre-aged between 0 and 96 h, suggested that the nature and composition of the clusters formed during pre-aging, rather than their size, influenced the subsequent precipitation process and the final mechanical properties of the alloy. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0208-1 Authors Lorella Ceschini, SMETEC Department, University of Bologna, V. le Risorgimento 4, 40136 Bologna, Italy Alessandro Morri, SMETEC Department, University of Bologna, V. le Risorgimento 4, 40136 Bologna, Italy Andrea Morri, SMETEC Department, University of Bologna, V. le Risorgimento 4, 40136 Bologna, Italy Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The objective of this study is to evaluate the combined effect of sulfide and acetate on the corrosion behavior of X52 steel in a CO 2 environment. The tests were conducted in a 0.5 M NaCl solution (25 °C). Corrosion rate and behavior were investigated using the following three electrochemical techniques: (a) linear polarization resistance, (b) potentiodynamic polarization, and (c) electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The morphology of surface corrosion products were analyzed using field emission scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction tests. The results show that the addition of sulfide ions decreased the corrosion rate of X52 steel sample. The inhibitive effect of sulfide ions was related to protective pyrite FeS layer on the electrode surface. Furthermore, in the presence of sulfide, acetate increased the X52 steel corrosion rate by enhancing the cathodic reaction. On the contrary, in the absence of sulfide, acetate decreased the corrosion rate of the X52 steel sample when the pH solution was increased. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0211-6 Authors M. C. Fatah, Centre for Corrosion Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 31750 Tronoh, Perak, Malaysia M. C. Ismail, Centre for Corrosion Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 31750 Tronoh, Perak, Malaysia B. Ari-Wahjoedi, Department of Fundamental and Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 31750 Tronoh, Perak, Malaysia Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Statistical characteristics of strength distribution in ceramic components should be clarified because of large scatter in ceramics strength. Characteristics of strength distribution, however, depend on sample size, i.e., the number of tested specimens. In this study, a numerical procedure in the framework of fracture mechanics was developed to estimate strength distribution of ceramics by assuming the same statistical distribution of cracks in a material. Experimental results in four-point bending tests of alumina, which were reported in a previous work, were cited to verify the validity of the developed procedure. Smooth specimens of distinct sizes as well as notched specimens with different notch shapes were used in the experiment. Monte Carlo simulations using the developed procedure were carried out to investigate effects of the sample size on strength properties of alumina specimens with various shapes. The simulated result revealed that the experimental strength for various types of specimens was almost covered within a range of upper and lower bounds of strength simulated for the alumina. The experimental mean strength correlated with the effective volume was also included in a band range between the maximum and the minimum of mean strength obtained by the simulation. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0214-3 Authors Toshihiko Hoshide, Department of Energy Conversion Science, Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan Hiroyuki Sugiyama, Department of Energy Conversion Science, Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Reduction in grain size in weld fusion zones (FZs) presents the advantages of increased resistance to solidification cracking and improvement in mechanical properties. Transverse mechanical arc oscillation was employed to obtain grain refinement in the weldment during tungsten inert gas welding of Al-Mg-Si alloy. Electron backscattered diffraction analysis was carried out on AA6061-AA4043 filler metal tungsten inert gas welds. Grain size, texture evolution, misorientation distribution, and aspect ratio of weld metal, PMZ, and BM have been observed at fixed arc oscillation amplitude and at three different frequencies levels. Arc oscillation showed grain size reduction and texture formation. Fine-grained arc oscillated welds exhibited better yield and ultimate tensile strengths and significant improvement in percent elongation. The obtained results were attributed to reduction in equivalent circular diameter of grains and increase in number of subgrain network structure of low angle grain boundaries. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0207-2 Authors N. S. Biradar, Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science, Welding and Equipment Design Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, 400076 India R. Raman, Department of Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science, Welding and Equipment Design Laboratory, Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, 400076 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this paper, fatigue crack propagation life of resistance spot welds in tensile-shear specimens is investigated based on the calculation of stress intensity factors and J -integral using three-dimensional finite element method. For comparison, experimental works on 5083-O aluminum alloy spot-welded joints have been carried out to verify the numerical predictions of fatigue crack propagation of welded joints. A lot of analyses have been performed to obtain stress intensity factors and J -integral in tensile-shear specimens of spot-welded joints by using commercial software ANSYS. These gathered data have been formulated by using statistical software SPSS. The results of fatigue propagation life and predicted fatigue crack path revealed very good agreement with the experimental fatigue test data and photograph of cross-section of the fatigued spot-weld specimens. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0220-5 Authors S. Hassanifard, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran M. A. Mohtadi Bonab, University of Bonab, Bonab, Iran Gh. Jabbari, Institute of Energy and Hydro Technology, Tehran, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This paper preliminarily investigates the general transport properties (i.e., water sorptivity, water permeability, and gas permeability) of carbon-nanotube/cement composites. Carboxyl multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) are dispersed into cement mortar to fabricate the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) reinforced cement-based composites by applying ultrasonic energy in combination with the use of surfactants (sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate and sodium dodecyl sulfate). Experimental results indicate that even at a very small dosage the addition of MWNTs can help decrease water sorptivity coefficient, water permeability coefficient, and gas permeability coefficient of cement mortar, which suggests that CNTs can effectively improve the durability properties of cement-based composites. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0228-x Authors Baoguo Han, Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA Zhengxian Yang, Corrosion and Sustainable Infrastructure Laboratory, Western Transportation Institute, College of Engineering, Montana State University, P.O. Box 174250, Bozeman, MT 59717-4250, USA Xianming Shi, Corrosion and Sustainable Infrastructure Laboratory, Western Transportation Institute, College of Engineering, Montana State University, P.O. Box 174250, Bozeman, MT 59717-4250, USA Xun Yu, Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, University of North Texas, Denton, TX 76203, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Slurry erosion (SE) is commonly observed in almost all kinds of components and machineries involved in fluid (liquid) transfer and delivery. During design and development phase of these components, test rigs are usually required to evaluate their performance; however, only few detailed designs of test rigs are available for SE investigations. Among the existing designs of SE test rigs, most of them belong to rotary type. In the present study, design of a new type of SE test rig has been proposed, which is simpler in construction and working. This newly designed test rig could possibly eliminate some of the limitations (velocity-concentration interdependence and lack of acceleration distance) found in the existing set-ups. Calibration of the test rig was done for jet velocity and erodent concentration. Commissioning of the rig was undertaken by evaluating the effect of operating parameters (concentration and impingement angle) on the erosion rates of aluminum and cast iron. Results show that the rig was able to capture the traditional responses of ductile and brittle erosion behaviors being observed for these materials. Repeatability of the test rig was ensured, and the results were found to be within the acceptable error limits. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0219-y Authors H. S. Grewal, School of Mechanical, Materials and Energy Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Nangal Road, Rupnagar, 140001 Punjab, India Anupam Agrawal, School of Mechanical, Materials and Energy Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Nangal Road, Rupnagar, 140001 Punjab, India H. Singh, School of Mechanical, Materials and Energy Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, Nangal Road, Rupnagar, 140001 Punjab, India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The microstructure and mechanical properties of iron-based powder metallurgical steels jointed by CO 2 laser-metal active gas (MAG) hybrid welding were investigated. The cross-sectional morphology of hybrid weld bead consisted of arc zone and laser zone. The microstructure of arc zone consisted of columnar dendrite and fine acicular dendrite between the columnar dendrites, but that of laser zone was composed of fine equiaxed dendrite. The MAG weld had obvious heat-affected zone (HAZ) zone, while hybrid weld had very narrow HAZ zone because of the rapid cooling rate. The phase constitutions of the joint determined by x-ray diffraction were α-Fe (ferrite) and Cu. The 2θ value of α-Fe (200) peaks of hybrid weld was smaller than that of sintering compact. Compared to MAG weld, hybrid weld had finer grain size, higher micro-hardness, and higher micro-strain, which was caused by the difference of cooling rate and crystallizing. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0222-3 Authors Shuangyu Liu, College of Mechanical and Electric Engineering, Changchun University of Science and Technology, No. 7089 WeiXing Road, Changchun, 130022 People’s Republic of China Hong Zhang, College of Mechanical and Electric Engineering, Changchun University of Science and Technology, No. 7089 WeiXing Road, Changchun, 130022 People’s Republic of China Jiandong Hu, The Key Lab of Automobile Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, 130025 People’s Republic of China Yan Shi, College of Mechanical and Electric Engineering, Changchun University of Science and Technology, No. 7089 WeiXing Road, Changchun, 130022 People’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of Ti addition (1 and 2% Ti) and aging heat treatment on the mechanical and wear characteristics of Al-12Si-20Mg cast alloys. In preliminary studies conducted to determine the aging parameters, cast alloys were kept at 550 °C for 2 h before being quenched into water and aged at 200 °C for five different periods (3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 h). As the specimen aged for 12 h had the highest hardness value, all the specimens were aged at 200 °C for 12 h. The microstructures of the as-cast and aged specimens were analyzed using an optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope. The hardness of the investigated alloys was measured by micro-hardness test. The wear tests were carried out using the pin-on-disk model wear test apparatus, and the results were evaluated according to weight loss. According to the wear test results, the wear behavior of the investigated alloys changed depending on the aging heat treatment applied and the load. While Ti addition and the aging heat treatment applied reduce the weight loss at low loads (5 N), they increase the weight loss at higher loads (10 and 20 N). Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0217-0 Authors Yavuz Sun, Engineering Faculty, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this study, SiC p containing composite powders were used as the reinforcement carrier media for manufacturing cast Al356/5 vol.% SiC p composites. Untreated SiC p , milled particulate Al-SiC p composite powder, and milled particulate Al-SiC p -Mg composite powder were injected into Al356 melt. The resultant composite slurries were then cast from either a fully liquid state (stir casting) or semisolid state (compocasting). The results revealed that by injection of composite powders, the uniformity of the SiC p in the Al356 matrix was greatly improved, the particle-free zones in the matrix were disappeared, the SiC particles became smaller, the porosity was decreased, and the matrix microstructure became finer. Compocasting changed the matrix dendritic microstructure to a finer non-dendritic one and also slightly improved the distribution of the SiC p . Simultaneous utilization of Al-SiC p -Mg composite powder and compocasting method increased the macro- and micro-hardness, impact energy, bending strength, and bending strain of Al356/SiC p composite by 35, 63, 20, 20, and 40%, respectively, as compared with those of the composite fabricated by injection of untreated SiC p and stir casting process. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0223-2 Authors Sajjad Amirkhanlou, Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111 Iran Behzad Niroumand, Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111 Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In recent years, two-layer metallic sheets have been increasingly used in various industries to create combined functions. Among cladding methods, the cold rolling is most widely used in producing bimetallic sheets. In this research, to thoroughly provide guidelines for cold rolling of bimetal strip, an attempt has been made to develop an analytical model based on upper bound method. Also, the bonding strength and critical reduction were calculated using upper bound theorem and the finite element simulation was used for Al/St bimetallic strip. Finally, an experimental study was run for our model to be verified analytically and numerically. Results show that the bonding strength of strips increases with increasing the total thickness reduction of bimetal strips and because of subsequent occurrence of strips bonding in roll gap, increasing the yield strength of base layer gives rise to critical reduction. Through the study, it becomes clear that the proposed analytical model is applicable for simulating the cold rolling process of the two-layer strips and is capable to broaden our knowledge in manufacturing and production of bimetal strips and sheets. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0342-9 Authors H. Maleki, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, 424 Hafez Avenue, P.O. Box 4413-15875, Tehran, Iran S. Bagherzadeh, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran B. Mollaei-Dariani, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, 424 Hafez Avenue, P.O. Box 4413-15875, Tehran, Iran K. Abrinia, Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In the present study, 30MSV6 microalloyed steel was heat treated under different conditions, and the relation between its microstructure and mechanical properties was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the microstructure of the heat-treated steel, and the effect of microstructure on tensile strength and fatigue behavior was determined. Microstructural analysis indicated that precipitates were formed at different sites such as grain boundaries and sub-grain boundaries. Furthermore, microstructural studies accompanied by the evaluation of mechanical properties revealed that the optimal heat treatment cycle of 30MSV6 microalloyed steel involved austenitization at 1223 K for 1 h and cooling in air to room temperature, followed by aging at 873 K for 1.5 h. The optimal heat treatment cycle resulted in significant improvement in the fatigue strength, tensile strength, and ductility because of the development of a uniform distribution of fine precipitates in a refined microstructure. The fatigue limit under optimum conditions (~384 MPa) was greater than that under other conditions (~321 and 312 MPa). Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0324-y Authors M. Hajisafari, Department of Materials Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran S. Nategh, Department of Materials Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran H. Yoozbashizadeh, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran A. Ekrami, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The inhibition effect of mild steel (MS) corrosion in 1 M HCl was studied by the addition of indole alkaloids (crude) isolated from Alstonia angustifolia var. latifolia ( A. latifolia ) leaves at 303 K. Potentiodynamic polarization, impedance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analyses were used for this study. Results show that the isolated alkaloid extract of A. latifolia is a good inhibitor and exhibited maximum inhibition efficiency (above 80%) at concentrations between 3 and 5 mg/L. Polarization measurements indicated that the inhibitor does not alter the mechanism of either anodic or cathodic reactions and acted as mixed-type inhibitor. The inhibition efficiencies of both electrochemical techniques are found to be in good agreement and adsorption of inhibitor follows Langmuir isotherm. Adsorption of inhibitor over metal surface was well supported by the SEM studies, while FTIR studies evidenced the presence of indole alkaloids as green inhibitor that reduces the rate of corrosion. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0347-4 Authors Pandian Bothi Raja, School of Chemical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), 11800 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Ahmad Kaleem Qureshi, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Afidah Abdul Rahim, School of Chemical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), 11800 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Khalijah Awang, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Mat Ropi Mukhtar, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Hasnah Osman, School of Chemical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), 11800 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Presence of hydrogen in materials is known to affect their mechanical properties due to hydrogen embrittlement problem. Steels used in various applications are prone to be exposed to aqueous electrochemical environments, which may introduce hydrogen into the alloy. These alloys are also prone to be simultaneously exposed to magnetic field, which may affect the hydrogen embrittlement susceptibility of these alloys. Therefore, it is important to examine the effect of hydrogen and magnetic field on the mechanical behavior of iron-based alloys. In this work, the effect of hydrogen and magnetic field on the fracture behavior of high strength AISI 4340 steel was examined. Three-point bend test was used to study the fracture behavior. In all the cases, the samples tested with hydrogen charging show a drastic reduction in ductility and fracture stress values. The effect of magnetic field was seen to be negligible. The hydrogen embrittlement was characterized by a change in the fracture surface from a ductile-type fracture to a brittle cleavage-type fracture. Acoustic emission signals collected during the test corresponds to the fracture behavior. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0343-8 Authors Meenakshisundaram Ramanathan, Department of Metallurgical Engineering, University of Utah, 135 S 1460 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0114, USA Biswadeep Saha, Department of Metallurgical Engineering, University of Utah, 135 S 1460 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0114, USA Chai Ren, Department of Metallurgical Engineering, University of Utah, 135 S 1460 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0114, USA Sivaraman Guruswamy, Department of Metallurgical Engineering, University of Utah, 135 S 1460 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0114, USA Michael McCarter, Department of Mining Engineering, University of Utah, 135 S 1460 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0114, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    It is well known that drillpipe failures are a pendent problem in drilling engineering. Most of drillpipe failures are low amplitude-repeated impact fatigue failures. The traditional method is using Charpy impact test to describe the fracture property of drillpipe, but it cannot veritably characterize the impact fatigue property of drillpipe under low amplitude-repeated impact. Based on the Charpy impact and other methods, a repeated impact method and instrument have been proposed to simulate the low amplitude-repeated impact of downhole conditions for drillpipe. Then, a series of tests have been performed using this instrument. Test results demonstrate the drillpipe upset transition area nonhomogeneity is more severe than drillpipe body, which is the key factor that leads to washout and fracture frequently of it. As the one time impact energy increases, the repeated impact times decrease exponentially, therefore, the rotational speed has a great effect on the fatigue life of drillpipe, and it is vital to select a suitable rotational speed for drilling jobs. In addition, based on SEM fractographs we found that the fracture surface of repeated impact is similar to the fatigue fracture, and there are many low cycle fatigue characteristic features on fracture surface that reveal very good agreement with the features of drillpipe fatigue failures in the field. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0349-2 Authors Yuanhua Lin, State Key Laboratory of Oil and Gas Reservoir Geology and Exploitation, Southwest Petroleum University, Chengdu, 610500 Peolple’s Republic of China Qiang Li, CNPC Key Lab for Tubular Goods Engineering, Southwest Petroleum University, Chengdu, 610500 Peolple’s Republic of China Yongxing Sun, CNPC Key Lab for Tubular Goods Engineering, Southwest Petroleum University, Chengdu, 610500 Peolple’s Republic of China Hongjun Zhu, CNPC Key Lab for Tubular Goods Engineering, Southwest Petroleum University, Chengdu, 610500 Peolple’s Republic of China Ying Zhou, School of Material Science and Engineering, Southwest Petroleum University, Chengdu, 610500 Peolple’s Republic of China Juan Xie, School of Material Science and Engineering, Southwest Petroleum University, Chengdu, 610500 Peolple’s Republic of China Taihe Shi, State Key Laboratory of Oil and Gas Reservoir Geology and Exploitation, Southwest Petroleum University, Chengdu, 610500 Peolple’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this study, the Taguchi method was used as a design of experiment (DOE) technique to optimize the pulsed current gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) parameters for improved pitting corrosion resistance of AA5083-H18 aluminum alloy welds. A L9 (3 4 ) orthogonal array of the Taguchi design was used, which involves nine experiments for four parameters: peak current ( P ), base current ( B ), percent pulse-on time ( T ), and pulse frequency ( F ) with three levels was used. Pitting corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution was evaluated by anodic polarization tests at room temperature and calculating the width of the passive region (∆ E pit ). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed on the measured data and S / N (signal to noise) ratios. The “bigger is better” was selected as the quality characteristic (QC). The optimum conditions were found as 170 A, 85 A, 40%, and 6 Hz for P , B , T , and F factors, respectively. The study showed that the percent pulse-on time has the highest influence on the pitting corrosion resistance (50.48%) followed by pulse frequency (28.62%), peak current (11.05%) and base current (9.86%). The range of optimum ∆ E pit at optimum conditions with a confidence level of 90% was predicted to be between 174.81 and 177.74 mV SCE . Under optimum conditions, the confirmation test was carried out, and the experimental value of ∆ E pit of 176 mV SCE was in agreement with the predicted value from the Taguchi model. In this regard, the model can be effectively used to predict the ∆ E pit of pulsed current gas tungsten arc welded joints. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0346-5 Authors E. Rastkerdar, Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111 Iran M. Shamanian, Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111 Iran A. Saatchi, Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111 Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    An Al-11Mg 2 Si-Si in situ composite was prepared by a modified investment casting technique that employs sub-pressure for castability improvement and immersion of ceramic shell molds in fluidized beds of silica sand and iron particles for heat extraction improvement. The microstructure of the as-cast composite is explained according to the pseudoeutectic Al-Mg 2 Si phase diagram. The positive effect of a decreased number of mold investment layers and cooling assisted by immersion of the mold in a metallic bed on the tensile strength and hardness of the heat treated composite is noted. A minor presence of Fe in the master alloys constitutes an essential factor for the brittleness of the composite. Solution treatment notably improves the tensile strength of the composite; however, prolonged treatment deteriorates its ductility. The effect of time and temperature of the aging treatment on the hardness of the composite is investigated. The positive influence of cooling assisted by a metallic fluidized bed on the effectiveness of the aging treatment is noticed. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0337-6 Authors E. Georgatis, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece A. Lekatou, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece A. E. Karantzalis, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece H. Petropoulos, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece S. Katsamakis, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece A. Poulia, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Friction composite formulation consisting of decreasing nanoclay/lapinus fibres content, increasing graphite/aramid fibres content, and master batch of phenolic/barite is designed, fabricated, and characterized for their mechanical, thermo-mechanical, and tribological studies in braking situations. A standard test protocol is adopted for evaluating braking performance. The nanoclay content (≤2.25 wt.%) enhances hardness, impact strength, storage, and loss modulus characteristics of the friction composites. Such composites exhibit higher friction stability as well as variability coefficient. However, composites with higher content of nanoclay (~2.75 wt.%) exhibit moderate level of stability coefficient and minimum variability coefficient. Fade performance improves with nanoclay content whereas friction fluctuations increase continuously with increasing nanoclay content. The disc temperature continuously rises with nanoclay contents, it becomes maximum for nanoclay content 2.75 wt.%. The same composition found to be effective in arresting temperature rise, arrests fading, improves recovery, moderate stability with minimum variability coefficient, and higher level of μ-performance hence recommended. The wear performance deteriorates with lapinus/nanoclay content and improves with the amount of aramid/graphite in the friction composites. Worn surface morphology study (using SEM) reveals the associated wear mechanisms responsible for wear of investigated composites. XRD study confirms the presence and dispersion of nanoclay with other composite ingredients. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0325-x Authors Tej Singh, Department of Mechanical Engineering, NIT, Hamirpur, H.P., India Amar Patnaik, Department of Mechanical Engineering, NIT, Hamirpur, H.P., India Bhabani K. Satapathy, Centre for Polymer Science and Engineering, IIT Delhi, Hauz Khas, India Mukesh Kumar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, NIT, Hamirpur, H.P., India Bharat S. Tomar, Allied Nippon Industries Limited, Sahibabad, U.P., India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Ballistic performance of armor steel welds is very poor due to the usage of low strength and low hardness austenitic stainless steel fillers, which are traditionally used to avoid hydrogen induced cracking. In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to study the effect of plasma transferred arc hardfaced interlayer thickness on ballistic performance of shielded metal arc welded armor steel weldments. The usefulness of austenitic stainless steel buttering layer on the armor grade quenched and tempered steel base metal was also considered in this study. Joints were fabricated using three different thickness (4, 5.5, and 7 mm) hardfaced middle layer by plasma transferred arc hardfacing process between the top and bottom layers of austenitic stainless steel using shielded metal arc welding process. Sandwiched joint, in addition with the buttering layer served the dual purpose of weld integrity and ballistic immunity due to the high hardness of hardfacing alloy and the energy absorbing capacity of soft backing weld deposits. This paper will provide some insight into the usefulness of austenitic stainless steel buttering layer on the weld integrity and plasma transferred arc hardfacing layer on ballistic performance enhancement of armor steel welds. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0338-5 Authors M. Balakrishnan, Department of Manufacturing Engineering, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, 608 002 Tamil Nadu, India V. Balasubramanian, Center for Materials Joining & Research (CEMAJOR), Department of Manufacturing Engineering, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, 608 002 Tamil Nadu, India G. Madhusudhan Reddy, Solidification Technology Division, Metal Joining Group, Defense Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL), Kanchanbaugh, Hyderabad, 500058 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The corrosion inhibition of mild steel in 1 M HCl by 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde-1,3propandiamine (4-HBP) has been investigated using potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronoamperometry measurements. The experimental results suggest that this compound is an excellent corrosion inhibitor for mild steel and the inhibition efficiency increases with the increase in inhibitor concentration. Polarization curves reveal that this organic compound is a mixed-type inhibitor. The effect of temperature on the corrosion behavior of mild steel in 1 M HCl with the addition of the Schiff base was studied in the temperature range from 25 to 65 °C. The experimentally obtained adsorption isotherms follow the Langmuir equation. Activation parameters and thermodynamic adsorption parameters of the corrosion process such as E a , Δ H , Δ S , K ads , and Δ G ads were calculated by the obtained corrosion currents at different temperatures and using the adsorption isotherm. The morphology of mild steel surface after its exposure to 1 M HCl solution in the absence and in the presence of 4-HBP was examined by AFM images. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0348-3 Authors O. Ghasemi, Abadan Faculty of Petroleum Engineering, Petroleum University of Technology, Abadan, Iran I. Danaee, Abadan Faculty of Petroleum Engineering, Petroleum University of Technology, Abadan, Iran G. R. Rashed, Abadan Faculty of Petroleum Engineering, Petroleum University of Technology, Abadan, Iran M. RashvandAvei, Department of Chemistry, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran M. H. Maddahy, Abadan Faculty of Petroleum Engineering, Petroleum University of Technology, Abadan, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Nickel-based alloys are being considered as candidate materials for the storage of high level waste. In the present investigation, Alloy 600 was assessed by potentiodynamic anodic polarization technique for its corrosion behavior in the as-received, solution annealed, and sensitized condition in 3 M HNO 3 and 3 M HNO 3 containing simulated high level waste. From the results of the investigation, it was found that the solution annealed specimen possesses superior corrosion resistance compared to the as-received and sensitized specimen. Double loop electrochemical potentiokinetic reactivation test was carried out to study the degree of sensitization. The effect of different concentrations of chloride ions in 3 M HNO 3 at 25 °C indicated tendency for pitting as the concentration of chloride ions was increased. Microstructural examination was carried out by optical microscope and scanning electron microscope after electrolytic etching. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study was carried out to investigate the passive film formed in 3 M HNO 3 and 3 M HNO 3 simulated high level waste. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0345-6 Authors Pradeep Kumar Samantaroy, Corrosion Science & Technology Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, 603102 India Girija Suresh, Corrosion Science & Technology Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, 603102 India Nanda Gopala Krishna, Corrosion Science & Technology Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, 603102 India U. Kamachi Mudali, Corrosion Science & Technology Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, 603102 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    An innovative process has been developed for electroplating of nickel on titanium surface using fast solution flow technique. Nickel was directly deposited on a titanium alloy without using any pre-treatment process. Level of adhesion was determined using quantitative peel test and characterization of the deposition was performed by scanning electron microscopy. Results showed that the rate of nickel deposition at 60 °C was higher than that of the rate of nickel deposition at 40 °C. Moreover, Watts solution provided higher rate of nickel deposition compared to the sulfate-based nickel solution. The rate of deposition increased with increasing the solution flow velocity from 1.5 to 3 m/s and raising current density from 0.4 × 10 4 to 1.6 × 10 4  A/m 2 for both solution baths. Adhesion test indicated good level of adhesion between the deposited nickel and titanium surface. The bonding toughness increased to 4 J/m 2 for 1.2 × 10 4  A/m 2 as a result of higher deposition rate. However, the mechanism responsible for the coating process was discussed in detail. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0298-9 Authors Ashkan Vakilipour Takaloo, Research Institute of Advanced Materials (RIAM) and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 151-744 Korea Mohammad Sakhawat Hussain, Department of Materials Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Johor Bahru, Malaysia Mehdi Mazar Atabaki, Department of Materials Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Johor Bahru, Malaysia Shayan Vakilipour Takaloo, Department of Materials Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Johor Bahru, Malaysia Seung Ki Joo, Research Institute of Advanced Materials (RIAM) and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 151-744 Korea Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    An attempt has been made to synthesize TiBSiC composite using titanium, silicon carbide, and boron carbide as the raw materials by hot-press sintering. The TiBSiC bulk composite with a high hardness (20.5 GPa) and high compressive strength (2010 MPa), with more than 99.1% density of theoretical value, has been successfully synthesized by the hot-press sintering. The composite was found to consist of fine TiB 2 , TiC, and Ti 3 SiC 2 using XRD analysis. SEM and EDX analyses showed uniform distribution of phases and an average grain size of around 2-3 μm. Nanoindentation studies showed the modulus of the composite is about 448 GPa. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-4 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0341-x Authors D. H. Xiao, State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China X. X. Li, State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China Z. S. Wu, State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China D. Liu, State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China T. C. Yuan, State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China M. Song, State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha, 410083 China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Electrochemical behavior of ultrahigh strength (UHS) steel (1#) after salt spray test (SST) was studied by means of electrochemical techniques and scanning Kelvin probe, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscope. The results show that pitting occurs to the samples of 1# steel in SST with 5% NaCl. The corrosion products are mainly γ-FeOOH and oxide/hydroxide of chromium. Within 4 days, corrosion reaction is resisted by the completed corrosion products, and thereafter corrosion rate of 1# steel with corrosion products is accelerated as the SST continues, since the corrosion potential shifts to negative direction and corrosion current density becomes larger. Kelvin potentials of 1# steel after the SST are 0.3-0.4 V higher in magnitude and distributes more unevenly than that before the SST, because the oxide films grow thicker and affect the anodic reaction of corrosion process. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0335-8 Authors Min Sun, Corrosion and Protection Center, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083 China Kui Xiao, Corrosion and Protection Center, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083 China Chaofang Dong, Corrosion and Protection Center, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083 China Xiaogang Li, Corrosion and Protection Center, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083 China Ping Zhong, Beijing Institute of Aeronautical Materials, Beijing, 100095 China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this paper, the intrinsic influence of nano-alumina particulate (Al 2 O 3p ) reinforcements on microstructure, microhardness, tensile properties, tensile fracture, cyclic stress-controlled fatigue, and final fracture behavior of a magnesium alloy is presented and discussed. The unreinforced magnesium alloy (AZ31) and the reinforced composite counterpart (AZ31/1.5 vol.% Al 2 O 3 ) were manufactured by solidification processing followed by hot extrusion. The elastic modulus, yield strength, and tensile strength of the nanoparticle-reinforced magnesium alloy were noticeably higher than the unreinforced counterpart. The ductility, quantified by elongation-to-failure, of the composite was observably lower than the unreinforced monolithic counterpart (AZ31). The nanoparticle-reinforced composite revealed improved cyclic fatigue resistance over the entire range of maximum stress at both the tested load ratios. Under conditions of fully reversed loading ( R  = −1) both materials showed observable degradation in behavior quantified in terms of cyclic fatigue life. The conjoint influence of reinforcement, processing, intrinsic microstructural features and loading condition on final fracture behavior is presented and discussed. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0276-2 Authors T. S. Srivatsan, Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 443250-3903, USA C. Godbole, Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 443250-3903, USA T. Quick, Department of Geology, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 443250-3903, USA M. Paramsothy, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9, Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, 117-576 Singapore M. Gupta, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9, Engineering Drive 1, Singapore, 117-576 Singapore Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Hybrid laser arc welding combines the advantages of laser welding and arc welding. Ever since its origination in the late 1970s, this technique has gained gradual attention and progressive use due to a combination of high welding speed, better formation of weld bead, gap tolerance, and increased penetration coupled with less distortion. In hybrid laser arc welding, one of the reasons for the observed improvement is an interaction or coupling effect between the plasma arc, laser beam, droplet transfer, and the weld pool. Few researchers have made an attempt to study different aspects of the process to facilitate a better understanding. It is difficult to get a thorough understanding of the process if only certain information in a certain field is provided. In this article, an attempt to analyze the coupling effect of the process was carried out based on a careful review of the research work that has been done which provides useful information from a different prospective. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0280-6 Authors Li Zhiyong, College of Material Science and Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051 China T. S. Srivatsan, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA LI Yan, College of Material Science and Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051 China Zhang Wenzhao, College of Material Science and Engineering, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051 China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Biomorphic SiC materials with tailor-made microstructure and properties similar to ceramic materials manufactured by conventional method are a new class of materials derived from natural biopolymeric cellulose templates (wood). Porous silicon carbide (SiC) ceramics with wood-like microstructure have been prepared by carbothermal reduction of charcoal/silica composites at 1300-1600 °C in inert Ar atmosphere. The C/SiO 2 composites were fabricated by infiltrating silica sol into porous activated biocarbon template. Silica in the charcoal/silica composite, preferentially in the cellular pores, was found to get transformed in forms of fibers and rods due to shrinkage during drying. The changes in the morphology of resulting porous SiC ceramics after heat treatment to 1600 °C, as well as the conversion mechanism of wood to activated carbon and then to porous SiC ceramic have been investigated using scanning electron microscope, x-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. Activation of carbon prior to silica infiltration has been found to enhance conversion of charcoal to SiC. The pore structure is found to be uniform in these materials than in those made from as-such charcoal/silica composites. This provides a low-cost and eco-friendly route to advanced ceramic materials, with near-net shape potential. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0286-0 Authors Satish M. Manocha, Department of Materials Science, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar, 388120 Gujarat, India Hemang Patel, Department of Materials Science, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar, 388120 Gujarat, India L. M. Manocha, Department of Materials Science, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar, 388120 Gujarat, India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    A comprehensive analysis on flow stress of a wrought Al-Mg alloy is performed to examine the effect of strain. For this study, hot compression tests were carried at different temperatures and strain rates. Corrections of friction and adiabatic heating effects lead to the true stress-true strain curves in the form of dynamic recovery, which reach to a steady-state condition. After correction, constitutive analysis at a constant strain is carried out using hyperbolic-sine equation. The effect of strain on each constitutive parameter is studied to derive a strain-dependent constitutive equation based on hyperbolic-sine equation. Some of constitutive parameters reach to the constant values at the specific strain values. Also, the relations between Zener-Holloman parameter and steady-state values of strain and stress are achieved. In order to develop a strong and general flow stress equation, stress-strain curves are normalized to their steady-state values, which results in an almost similar normalized stress-strain behavior for all of the studied deformation conditions (i.e., deformations at different temperatures and strain rates). Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0305-1 Authors M. A. Mostafaei, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Azadi Avenue, Tehran, Iran M. Kazeminezhad, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Azadi Avenue, Tehran, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The R-phase transformation has interesting features with potential for applications that need a small temperature hysteresis and good dynamic behavior, such as thermostatic valves. The aim of this article is to show the development, production, and validation process of different R-phase shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators, starting with a semi-finished wire and concluding with a finalized R-phase spring actuator. This study focuses mainly on the calculation, the thermomechanical treatment, and experimental validation of the designed actuators. The first section of this article presents a mathematical dimensioning tool for different R-phase actuators, especially for extension SMA springs. The second part shows specific parameters on the R-phase transformation during thermomechanical treatment. The parameters Ni-content and annealing temperature are being varied to achieve different transformation behavior of the R-phase. The third section relates to the production process of calculated SMA spring actuators based on the R-phase transformation. In the fourth and last section of the article, the performance of selected actuators will be characterized in functional tests, and the results will be compared with the calculated results of the mathematical model. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0285-1 Authors K. Lygin, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany S. Langbein, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany P. Labenda, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany T. Sadek, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this study, Ni-P coatings and sealing of the coatings by Ce-rich solution on Cf/Al composite surface for enhanced corrosion resistance are investigated. The corrosion resistance of uncoating sample in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution was investigated and a comparison with Ni-P and Ce-sealed Ni-P coatings is given. Effect of Ce-sealing on Ni-P coating is discussed. The results of electrochemical measurements of corrosion performance of Cf/Al composites show that sealing of Ni-P coatings with Ce-rich solution can improve the corrosion resistance. The Ce-rich-sealed Ni-P coating has higher corrosion resistance than the coating without Ce, and the electroless plated Ni-P coating on composite surface has higher corrosion resistance than the bare sample, as evidenced by EIS and potentiodynamic polarization measurements. The microstructure of the Cf/Al composites and the two kinds of coatings (i.e., Ni-P coating and Ce-sealed Ni-P coating) were examined by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The Ce-sealed Ni-P coatings on Cf/Al composite surface have a total thickness of ~11 μm of which 10 μm is the thickness of the Ni-P coating and ~1 μm is the thickness of the Ce-rich sealing. It shows that the selected area electron diffraction ring pattern of Ce-rich sealing on Ni-P plated composite is consistent with Ce 6 O 11 or CeO 2 . X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results show that Ce 4+ was the dominant oxidation state for Ce-rich sealing on Ni-P plated composite. The Ce-sealing treatment on Ni-P coating has improved the corrosion resistance over and above the corrosion resistance offered by the Ni-P mono-coating to the bare substrate. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0297-x Authors Chunyu Wang, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, 264209 People’s Republic of China Huanran Li, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, 264209 People’s Republic of China Peng Zhang, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, 264209 People’s Republic of China Hongyun Zhao, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai, 264209 People’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Highly porous NiTi with isotropic pore morphology has been successfully produced by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis of elemental Ni/Ti metallic powders. The effects of adding urea and NaCl as temporary pore fillers were investigated on pore morphology, microstructure, chemical composition, and the phase transformation temperatures of specimens. These parameters were studied by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Highly porous specimens were obtained with up to 83% total porosity and pore sizes between 300 and 500 μm in diameter. Results show pore characteristics were improved from anisotropic to isotropic and pore morphology was changed from channel-like to irregular by adding pore filler powders. Furthermore, the highly porous specimens produced when using urea as a space holder, were of more uniform composition in comparison to NaCl. DSC results showed that a two-step martensitic phase transformation takes place during the cooling cycles and the austenite finish temperature ( A f ) is close to human body temperature. Compression test results reveal that the compressive strength of highly porous NiTi is about 155 MPa and recoverable strain about 6% in superelasticity regime. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-5 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0289-x Authors S. A. Hosseini, Materials and Energy Research Center, P.O. Box 14155-4777, Tehran, Iran M. Alizadeh, Materials and Energy Research Center, P.O. Box 14155-4777, Tehran, Iran A. Ghasemi, Materials and Energy Research Center, P.O. Box 14155-4777, Tehran, Iran M. A. Meshkot, Materials and Energy Research Center, P.O. Box 14155-4777, Tehran, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Service data does not exist for the strength of enclosures for subdermally implanted biotelemetry devices intended for young wild animals. Developing adequate tests especially for implants intended for endangered species is difficult due to the very limited availability of live animals and cadaverous tissue, ethical concerns about using them, and high enclosure costs. In this research, these limitations were overcome by taking a conservative approach to design and testing. Reliability tests were developed and performed to establish the likelihood that a thin subdermally and cranially implanted alumina enclosure would fail due to typical external forces related to diving, fights, and falls over the expected 30-year life time of sea lions. Cyclic fatigue tests indicative of deep dives performed out of tissue and at the 90% reliability level indicated no failure after 70,000 stress cycles at stresses of approximately 15 MPa; dynamic fatigue tests indicated a 5% probability of failure at 250 MPa; and puncture tests indicative of fight bites showed a 5% probability of failure at 1500 N. These values were far outside of what the animals might expect to encounter in real life. On the other hand, the response of the enclosure to impact outside of the tissue was failure at a mean energy level of 6.7 J. Modeling results predict that head impacts due to trampling by fighting sea lion males and falls over 1 m onto a rocky ledge typical of haul out environments would likely fracture an infant’s head as well as the implant. The device can be implanted under an impact absorbing 1 cm blubber layer for extra protection. More service data for enclosures can be made more available despite limited availability of test animals if a conservative approach to testing is taken. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0295-z Authors Bryan Hori, Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 2360 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada Royann J. Petrell, Chemical and Biological Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 2360 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada Goran Fernlund, Materials Engineering, The University of British Columbia, 6350 Stores Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada Andrew Trites, UBC Marine Mammal Research Unit, Rm 247 AERL, 2202 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Experiments have been carried out to study the effect of annealing and cold work (CW) on the mechanical properties of beta III Ti alloy. Material was annealed at different temperatures above the beta transformation temperature, and then cold drawn to about 53% area reduction. Cyclic tensile test was performed to study the evolution of mechanical properties and the recoverable strain during process. Results show that the effect of annealing and CW is closely related to the stress-induced martensite (SIM) phase transformation. Lower annealing temperature results in higher strength and recoverable strain, which is further increased by CW. A total recoverable strain of ~3.2% was obtained from the annealed and CW sample. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0302-4 Authors S. Cai, Fort Wayne Metals Research Products Corporation, Fort Wayne, IN 46809, USA D. M. Bailey, Fort Wayne Metals Research Products Corporation, Fort Wayne, IN 46809, USA L. E. Kay, Fort Wayne Metals Research Products Corporation, Fort Wayne, IN 46809, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This paper investigates the effect of plastic deformation on the anodic dissolution behavior of pipeline steel in deaerated groundwater with near-neutral pH. The plastic deformation is introduced via two different ways: cold-rolling and in situ tension. It is observed that the cold-rolling prior to the exposure to corroding environment reduces the corrosion rate but the in situ tension increases corrosion rate slightly. In accord with thermodynamic analysis, the impacts of residual stresses and plastic deformation on active dissolution are very small except a highly non-uniform dislocation structure is formed. A preliminary analysis suggests that the reduced corrosion rate of cold-rolled steel is related to competitive adsorption of CO 2 and H + on the active sites over the surface. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0284-2 Authors B. T. Lu, Environmental Performance of Materials, Department of Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Division, Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78228, USA H. Yu, Environmental Performance of Materials, Department of Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Division, Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78228, USA J. L. Luo, Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G6, Canada Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The microstructure, mechanical properties, and electrochemical behavior of Ti-12V-9Sn shape memory alloy were investigated, with commercial pure titanium (C.P. Ti) and Ti-12V alloy as controls. The metastable β phase was partially retained and α″ martensite phase was obtained in Ti-12V-9Sn alloy, whereas only martensitic phases (α′ and α″) existed in Ti-12V alloy at room temperature. Ti-12V-9Sn alloy exhibited a good combination of strength and elongation, which showed a “double yield” feature, along with a complete shape recovery strain of 4%. The electrochemical measurements indicated that all of the experimental samples exhibited excellent corrosion resistance in the artificial saliva with and without 0.2% NaF, among which Ti-12V-9Sn alloy possessed the lowest corrosion current density in both kinds of simulated body fluids. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0308-y Authors K. J. Qiu, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China B. L. Wang, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China F. Y. Zhou, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China W. J. Lin, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China L. Li, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China J. P. Lin, State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083 China Y. F. Zheng, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are very interesting smart materials not only for their shape memory and superelastic effects but also because of their significant intrinsic damping capacity. The latter is exhibited upon martensitic transformations and especially in martensitic state. The combination of these SMA properties with the mechanical and the lightweight of fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FGRP) is a promising solution for manufacturing of innovative composites for vibration suppression in structural applications. CuZnAl sheets, after laser patterning, were embedded in a laminated composite between a thick FGRP core and two thin outer layers with the aim of maximizing the damping capacity of the beam for passive vibration suppression. The selected SMA Cu 66 Zn 24 Al 10 at.% was prepared by vacuum induction melting; the ingot was subsequently hot-and-cold rolled down to 0.2 mm thickness tape. The choice of a copper alloy is related to some advantages in comparison with NiTiCu SMA alloys, which was tested for the similar presented application in a previous study: lower cost, higher storage modulus and consequently higher damping properties in martensitic state. The patterning of the SMA sheets was performed by means of a pulsed fiber laser. After the laser processing, the SMA sheets were heat treated to obtain the desired martensitic state at room temperature. The transformation temperatures were measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The damping properties were determined, at room temperature, on full-scale sheet, using a universal testing machine (MTS), with cyclic tensile tests at different deformation amplitudes. Damping properties were also determined as a function of the temperature on miniature samples with a dynamical mechanical analyzer (DMA). Numerical modeling of the laminated composite, done with finite element method analysis and modal strain energy approaches, was performed to estimate the corresponding total damping capacity and then compared to experimental results. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0293-1 Authors Carlo Alberto Biffi, National Research Council CNR, Institute for Energetics and Interphases, Corso Promessi Sposi, 29, Lecco, Italy P. Bassani, National Research Council CNR, Institute for Energetics and Interphases, Corso Promessi Sposi, 29, Lecco, Italy A. Tuissi, National Research Council CNR, Institute for Energetics and Interphases, Corso Promessi Sposi, 29, Lecco, Italy M. Carnevale, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, Via La Masa, 34, Milan, Italy N. Lecis, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, Via La Masa, 34, Milan, Italy A. LoConte, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, Via La Masa, 34, Milan, Italy B. Previtali, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, Via La Masa, 34, Milan, Italy Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    A decarburization protective coating was fabricated onto spring steel by using bauxite with functional additives. Metalloscope, XRD, and TG-DTA thermal analysis revealed that, at 〈1050 °C, the depth of the ferrite layer of the coated specimen decreased because of the shield effect and carbon concentration of the coating. The protective effect increased to 100% above 1050 °C, because Na 2 Al 6 P 2 O 15 formed by the sintering process pulled the solid phase closer and filled the void through wetting power and surface tension between the liquid and solid phases and made the coating more compact. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0309-x Authors Xiaojing Wang, State Key Laboratory of Multiphase Complex Systems, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P. O. BOX 353, Beijing, 100190 China Lianqi Wei, State Key Laboratory of Multiphase Complex Systems, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P. O. BOX 353, Beijing, 100190 China Xun Zhou, State Key Laboratory of Multiphase Complex Systems, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P. O. BOX 353, Beijing, 100190 China Xiaomeng Zhang, State Key Laboratory of Multiphase Complex Systems, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P. O. BOX 353, Beijing, 100190 China Shufeng Ye, State Key Laboratory of Multiphase Complex Systems, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P. O. BOX 353, Beijing, 100190 China Yunfa Chen, State Key Laboratory of Multiphase Complex Systems, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P. O. BOX 353, Beijing, 100190 China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The inhibition of mild steel corrosion in aerated 0.5 N H 2 SO 4 solution was investigated using potentiodynamic polarization studies (Tafel), linear polarization studies, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies, adsorption studies, and surface morphological studies. The effect of inhibitor concentration on corrosion rate, the effect of temperature, degree of surface coverage, adsorption kinetics, and surface morphology are investigated. The inhibition efficiency increased markedly with increase in the additive concentration and decreased slightly with increasing temperature. The presence of DMSTT decrease the double-layer capacitance and increase the charge transfer resistance. The value of activation energy ( E a ) of metal corrosion, adsorption equilibrium constant ( K ads ), and free energy of adsorption (Δ G ads ) were calculated from the temperature dependence of corrosion current. The adsorption of inhibitor molecule on mild steel surface follow Langmuir isotherm. DMSTT offers excellent inhibition properties and acts as a mixed-type inhibitor. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0292-2 Authors Sam John, Department of Chemistry, University of Calicut, Calicut, 673635 Kerala, India Abraham Joseph, Department of Chemistry, University of Calicut, Calicut, 673635 Kerala, India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The aim of this study was to determine the influence of soft drinks on the surface of Ni-Ti archwires and their corrosion behavior. Archwires with different patterns (smooth, scratch, dimple, and crack) were selected and characterized by scanning electron microscopy and laser confocal microscopy. Immersion tests were performed in artificial saliva (pH 6.7) with a soft drink with a pH of 2.5 for 28 days. The results showed an increase in the surface defects and/or roughness of the dimple, crack and scratch patterns with the immersion times, and a decrease in corrosion resistance. A relationship between the surface pattern and the extent of the corrosion in Ni-Ti archwires with soft drinks at low pH has been demonstrated. Pattern should be taken into account in future studies, and manufacturing processes that produce surface defects (especially cracks) should be avoided. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0311-3 Authors C. Abalos, Department of Dental Materials, School of Dentistry, University of Seville, Seville, Spain A. Paul, Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Seville, Seville, Spain A. Mendoza, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of Seville, Seville, Spain E. Solano, Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of Seville, Seville, Spain C. Palazon, Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of Seville, Seville, Spain F. J. Gil, Department of Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering, Technical University of Catalonia, Diagonal 647, 08028 Barcelona, Spain Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Fe-Cr coating was prepared by plasma-spraying process. As-sprayed coatings were machined by grinding, lapping, or polishing processes as appropriate to get different surface roughnesses. Rolling contact fatigue (RCF) experiments were conducted using a ball-on-disk setup. RCF lifetime of the coating was calculated. The worn morphologies of the coating were observed. Results show that surface roughness obviously influences RCF behavior of the coating. The smooth coatings showed longer RCF lifetimes, and always failed by delamination. The rough coatings always failed by abrasion or spalling. The failure of smooth coatings was driven by the orthogonal shear stress and radial stress, whereas the failure of rough coatings was driven by the asperity contact. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0315-z Authors Zhong-yu Piao, College of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014 China Bin-shi Xu, National Key Laboratory for Remanufacturing, Academy of Armored Forces Engineering, Beijing, 100072 China Hai-dou Wang, National Key Laboratory for Remanufacturing, Academy of Armored Forces Engineering, Beijing, 100072 China Dong-hui Wen, College of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014 China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This article presents a methodology for evaluation of the proof load factor (PLF) for clamp band system (CBS) made of M250 Maraging steel following fracture mechanics principles.CBS is most widely used as a structural element and as a separation system. Using Taguchi’s design of experiments and the response surface method (RSM) the compact tension specimens were tested to establish an empirical relation for the failure load ( P max ) in terms of the ultimate strength, width, thickness, and initial crack length. The test results of P max closely matched with the developed RSM empirical relation. Crack growth rates of the maraging steel in different environments were examined. Fracture strength (σ f ) of center surface cracks and through-crack tension specimens are evaluated utilizing the fracture toughness ( K IC ). Stress induced in merman band at flight loading conditions is evaluated to estimate the higher load factor and PLF. Statistical safety factor and reliability assessments were made for the specified flaw sizes useful in the development of fracture control plan for CBS of launch vehicles. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0355-4 Authors J. Singaravelu, LVM3 Project, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Trivandrum, 695022 India S. Sundaresan, Structural Analysis and Testing Group, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Trivandrum, 695022 India B. Nageswara Rao, School of Mechanical and Civil Sciences, KL University, Green Fields, Vaddeswaram, 522 502 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Sn-Ag-Cu solder pastes are widely used as the joining material in the electronic assembly process. The aim of this work was to evaluate the nonlinear viscoelastic behaviors of three different Sn-Ag-Cu solder pastes. Three novel rheological test methods were developed for this purpose. These include viscosity, thixotropic loop, and oscillatory amplitude sweep tests. The nonlinear flow curves obtained from the viscosity tests revealed the “shear-thinning” behavior of solder paste samples. Thixotropic loop test results explain the time-dependent structural breakdown and recovery of solder pastes. The viscoelastic properties of solder pastes were interpreted through oscillatory test parameters: storage modulus ( G ′), loss modulus ( G ″), and phase angle (δ). The discrepancies observed in the rheological behaviors of the paste samples were found to be related with flux composition (liquid phase in the solder paste) and particle size distribution. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0360-7 Authors Sabuj Mallik, Manufacturing Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Greenwich, Chatham, Kent ME4 4TB, UK Erica Hiu Laam Chan, Department of Physics and Materials Science, College of Science and Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Ndy Ekere, Manufacturing Engineering Research Group, School of Engineering, University of Greenwich, Chatham, Kent ME4 4TB, UK Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The effort to simulate the nitriding process has been ongoing for the last 20 years. Most of the work has been done to simulate the nitriding process of pure iron. In the present work a series of experiments have been done to understand the effects of the nitriding process parameters such as the nitriding potential, temperature, and time as well as surface condition on the gas nitriding process for the steels. The compound layer growth model has been developed to simulate the nitriding process of AISI 4140 steel. In this paper the fundamentals of the model are presented and discussed including the kinetics of compound layer growth and the determination of the nitrogen diffusivity in the diffusion zone. The excellent agreements have been achieved for both as-washed and pre-oxided nitrided AISI 4140 between the experimental data and simulation results. The nitrogen diffusivity in the diffusion zone is determined to be constant and only depends on the nitriding temperature, which is ~5 × 10 −9  cm 2 /s at 548 °C. It proves the concept of utilizing the compound layer growth model in other steels. The nitriding process of various steels can thus be modeled and predicted in the future. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0368-z Authors M. Yang, Center for Heat Treating Excellence, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Rd, Worcester, MA 01609, USA C. Zimmerman, Bluewater Thermal Solutions, 201 Brookfield Parkway, Suite 102, Greenville, SC 29607, USA D. Donahue, Bluewater Thermal Solutions, 628 Grooms Road, Reidsville, NC 27320, USA R. D. Sisson Jr., Center for Heat Treating Excellence, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Rd, Worcester, MA 01609, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The objective of this work was to investigate the relationships between process and microstructure and property in polycrystalline Ni 47 Ti 44 Nb 9 alloy. Three processes: (1) hot-forged, (2) cold-drawn, and (3) cold-rolled were investigated. The microstructure was tested by means of optical microscope, x-ray diffraction, and electron backscatter diffraction, and then crystalline orientation distribution functions and inverse pole figures were measured. The results indicated that hot-forging eliminated dendritic microstructure and fined the eutectic structure. It also induced a 〈113〉 fiber texture, which paralleled to the axial direction. The cold drawing and cold-rolling had a further effect in grain refinement. And the cold-drawn specimens contained a strong 〈111〉 fiber texture paralleling to the deformation direction, while the cold-rolled tubes formed 〈111〉 crystalline directions paralleling the axial direction and 〈110〉 crystalline directions of crystalline arranged along the circumferential direction. The notably distinctive recoverability of different processed materials was observed and discussed. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0376-z Authors XiangQian Yin, State Key Laboratory of Nonferrous Metals and Processes, General Research Institute for Nonferrous Metals, Beijing, China Xujun Mi, State Key Laboratory of Nonferrous Metals and Processes, General Research Institute for Nonferrous Metals, Beijing, China Yanfeng Li, State Key Laboratory of Nonferrous Metals and Processes, General Research Institute for Nonferrous Metals, Beijing, China Baodong Gao, State Key Laboratory of Nonferrous Metals and Processes, General Research Institute for Nonferrous Metals, Beijing, China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Formability of magnesium alloys at room temperature or slightly elevated temperatures is low, and exhibiting poor resistance to strain localization and failure. However, it is possible to improve the formability of AZ31 magnesium alloy sheet at high strain rate such as by electromagnetic forming (or magnetic pulse forming). In this study, experimental investigation of uniaxial tension of AZ31 sheet by magnetic pulse forming at room temperature was presented. The approximate rectangular flat spiral coil was employed to carry out the experiments. The specimens used in the tension test by magnetic pulse forming were same as the quasi-static uniaxial test. The samples were placed close to the outside of coil where an approximately homogenous magnetic field distribution prevailed. The experimental results indicate that the total elongation of AZ31 sheet improves about 37% compared with the quasi-static case. Non-uniform deformation occurs in the specimen. The maximum strain takes place on the area C , where is plotted on the specimen. The major and minor principal strains at most increase by approximately 112 and 96% under 5.12 kJ energy. The experimental results obtained in this study provide the fundamentals for the investigation of high speed forming of AZ31 magnesium alloy sheets. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0357-2 Authors Jun Rui Xu, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), 92 West Dazhi Street, Nan Gang District, Harbin, 150001 China Hai Ping Yu, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), 92 West Dazhi Street, Nan Gang District, Harbin, 150001 China Chun Feng Li, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), 92 West Dazhi Street, Nan Gang District, Harbin, 150001 China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This paper deals with a combined forming and fracture limit diagram and void coalescence analysis for the aluminum alloy Al 1145 alloy sheets of 1.8 mm thickness, annealed at four different temperatures, namely 200, 250, 300, and 350 °C. At different annealing temperatures these sheets were examined for their effects on microstructure, tensile properties, formability, void coalescence, and texture. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images taken from the fractured surfaces were examined. The tensile properties and formability of sheet metals were correlated with fractography features and void analysis. The variation of formability parameters, normal anisotropy of sheet metals, and void coalescence parameters were compared with texture analysis. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-17 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0358-1 Authors K. Velmanirajan, Department of Mechanical Engineering, VetriVinayaga College of Engineering and Technology, Thottiyam, Tiruchirappalli, 621215 Tamil Nadu, India A. Syed Abu Thaheer, Department of Mechanical Engineering, PET Engineering College, Vallioor, Tirunelveli, 627117 Tamil Nadu, India R. Narayanasamy, Department of Production Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli, 620015 Tamil Nadu, India R. Madhavan, Department of Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012 India Satyam Suwas, Department of Materials Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 560012 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The long-term durability of ceramics coated glass with high performance should be appropriately evaluated prior to their applications. Fatigue properties of such materials should be clarified to ensure the long-term durability. In this work, a borosilicate glass was coated with single- and two-layered ceramic thin films by a sputtering method. Fatigue tests of coated glass were conducted under bending mode, and fatigue properties of coated glass were investigated. It was revealed that the fatigue life of glass coated with two-layered film became longer compared with those of glass substrate and glass coated single-layered film. Hardness as surface characteristics of coated films, and bending strength as bulk property of coated glass were correlated with the average fatigue life, though no good correlation was found between them. Fatigue resistance strength was proposed as another strength parameter. It was found that the average fatigue life was adequately expressed by a power function of fatigue resistance strength. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0351-8 Authors Toshihiko Hoshide, Department of Energy Conversion Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan Motoki Tanaka, Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan Hideki Tsujiai, Graduate School of Energy Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8501 Japan Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The amount of nitrogen contained in super austenitic stainless steels (SASS) influences their properties significantly. The effect of maximum amount of nitrogen in the highly alloyed Cr and Ni SASS containing further additions of Mo and Mn is studied. The calculated nitrogen contents of the experimental alloys are compared with the actual nitrogen contents obtained in the alloys produced using induction melting furnace. The actual nitrogen content of the alloys is always lower than the calculated value, and this discrepancy is due to the presence of positive interaction parameters of Ni, Cu, and Si in the alloy. However, the yield of nitrogen in the liquid SASS is improved significantly with additions of Mn and Mo contents. The construction of multicomponent phase diagrams for SASS is demonstrated using Thermo-Calc software. SASS containing more nitrogen exhibited a very high strength without loss of toughness. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0364-3 Authors A. Chandrasekar, Department of Metallurgical Engineering, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, India J. Anburaj, Department of Metallurgical Engineering, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, India R. Narayanan, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Thandalam, Chennai, India V. Balusamy, Department of Metallurgical Engineering, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, India S. S. Mohamed Nazirudeen, Department of Metallurgical Engineering, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    This article studies the dependence of martensitic transformation on Mn:Sn ratio in Ni 43 Co 7 Mn 50− x Sn x alloy and the shape memory behavior of Ni 43 Co 7 Mn 43 Sn 7 in detail. The results show that all the transformation temperatures show a linear decrease with the decrease of Mn:Sn ratio. The similar tendency is also found in the change of T c . Ni 43 Co 7 Mn 43 Sn 7 alloy exhibits a moderate shape memory effect and the maximum shape recovery strain is 2.96%. Temperature memory effect is also observed in Ni 43 Co 7 Mn 43 Sn 7 alloy. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0371-4 Authors F. Chen, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China Y. X. Tong, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China X. L. Lu, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China B. Tian, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China L. Li, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China Y. F. Zheng, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Heat treaters need an effective simulation tool to predict the carburization performance of a variety of steels. The tool is needed to not only predict the carbon profile but also optimize the process in terms of the cycle time and the total cost. CarbTool© has been developed to meet these needs for gas and vacuum carburization. In this article, CarbTool© predictions were compared with industrial experimental results for three types of steels (AISI 8620, 5120, and 4320), heat treated by both gas and vacuum carburizing processes. Based on the agreement of model predictions and experimental results, it is found that CarbTool© could be used to predict the carbon concentration profile for a variety of alloys in both gas and vacuum carburizing processes. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0353-6 Authors Y. Wei, Center for Heat Treating Excellence, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA L. Zhang, Center for Heat Treating Excellence, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA R. D. Sisson Jr., Center for Heat Treating Excellence, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    High-nitrogen stainless steels (SS) are receiving increased attention because of the advantages of their strength over the SS with nominal composition. However, they are susceptible to dichromium nitride (Cr 2 N) precipitation during thermal exposure between 873 and 1323 K resulting in sensitization and subsequent intergranular corrosion. Round tensile specimens of AISI type 316LN SS, with three different nitrogen content 0.07, 0.14, and 0.22 wt.% in mill-annealed and sensitized (973 K for 24 h) condition were studied for their pitting corrosion behavior. The results of the potentiodynamic anodic polarization studies were correlated with the results obtained using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique. Critical pitting potential ( E pp ) increased with increasing nitrogen content but the same was found to decrease on aging. The parameters indicating passive film stability measured by EIS revealed faster passive film dissolution as indicated by low polarization resistance, in sensitized condition and vice-versa in mill-annealed condition. The EIS results correlated well with the variation in the respective E pp obtained from the potentiodynamic polarization diagrams. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0356-3 Authors A. Poonguzhali, Corrosion Science and Technology Group (CSTG), Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, 603102 India M. G. Pujar, Corrosion Science and Technology Group (CSTG), Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, 603102 India U. Kamachi Mudali, Corrosion Science and Technology Group (CSTG), Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, 603102 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this study, effect of aging treatment on microstructure, deformation behavior, and superelasticity of Ti 48.8 Ni 50.8 V 0.4 alloy was investigated. After aging at 400 °C for 30 min, Ti 3 Ni 4 precipitates formed. With increasing aging temperature from 300 to 450 °C, the yield strength of reoriented martensite increased due to the strengthening effect of Ti 3 Ni 4 phase, thus improved the shape recovery ratio and reduced the stress hysteresis. Further increasing the aging temperature, the size of Ti 3 Ni 4 precipitates increased and the coherency between precipitate and matrix gradually lost, leading to the decreasing yield strength of reoriented martensite and shape recovery ratio. Simultaneously, the stress hysteresis increased resulting from the hinder of plastic deformation to the interfacial movement during phase transformation. The critical stress to induce martensitic transformation continuously decreased with increasing aging temperature. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0373-2 Authors H. Zhao, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China C. Q. Liang, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China J. T. Liu, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China Y. X. Tong, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China F. Chen, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China B. Tian, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China L. Li, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China Y. F. Zheng, Center for Biomedical Materials and Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001 China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    We present a shape memory composite which is made of two types of shape memory materials, namely shape memory alloy (SMA) and shape memory hybrid. This composite has repeated instant self-healing function by means of not only shape recovery but also strength recovery (over 80%). The activation of the self-healing function is triggered by joule heating the embedded SMA. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0374-1 Authors C. C. Wang, Nanjing Institute of Technology, 1 Hongjing Avenue, Nanjing, 211167 People’s Republic of China Z. Ding, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798 Singapore H. Purnawali, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798 Singapore W. M. Huang, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798 Singapore H. Fan, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798 Singapore L. Sun, School of Civil Engineering, Shenyang Jianzhu University, Shenyang, 110168 People’s Republic of China Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this study, we have characterized the microstructure, resistivity, and dynamic deformation behavior of Cu/Ru/SiO 2 and Cu/SiO 2 samples under scratch loading conditions. Cu/Ru/SiO 2 samples showed higher elastic recovery and hardness when compared to the Cu/SiO 2 samples. In the case of Cu/Ru/SiO 2 samples, Ru acts as a glue layer between the Cu and the SiO 2 substrate providing both strength and toughness against dynamic loading. Hence, the critical load for delamination is higher for Cu/Ru/SiO 2 samples compared to Cu/SiO 2 samples. Our results show that Cu/Ru/SiO 2 thin films present significant potential to be used in Cu metallization. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0359-0 Authors N. Chawla, Materials Science and Engineering, School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-6106, USA S. H. Venkatesh, Materials Science and Engineering, School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-6106, USA D. R. P. Singh, Materials Science and Engineering, School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-6106, USA T. L. Alford, Materials Science and Engineering, School for Engineering of Matter, Transport, and Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-6106, USA Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Inspection and quality control of induction hardened parts require a good understanding of the depth of the hardened layer. Traditional destructive methods to determine the case depth are considered to be costly and time-consuming. The eddy current (EC) technique is sensitive to micro-structural changes; hence, it can be used to determine the case depth based on the differences in magnetic properties between the hardened layer and the core of the specimen. In this study, identical rods of AISI 1045 mild carbon steel were surface hardened using induction hardening technique. In order to investigate the applicability of the EC technique, the relations between obtained effective and total case depths and the EC outputs (induced voltage, normalized impedance, phase angle, and their harmonic characteristics) were studied. The results show a maximum of correlation coefficient of 94% in determining case depths by EC technique. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-5 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0369-y Authors Mehrdad Kashefi, Department of Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering, Engineering Faculty, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Saeed Kahrobaee, Department of Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering, Sadjad Institute of Higher Education, Mashhad, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The wetting characteristics of Sn-3.5Ag lead-free solder alloy on nickel-coated aluminum substrates in air (ambient), nitrogen, and argon atmospheres were investigated. The contact angles for the solder alloy obtained under air and argon atmospheres were in the range of 36°-38°. With nitrogen atmosphere the contact angle was found to be significantly lower at about 26°. Solder solidifying in air exhibited needle-shaped tin-rich dendrites surrounded by a eutectic matrix. The amount of tin dendrites decreased in argon atmosphere. However, the morphology of tin dendrites transformed from needle-shaped to nearly non-dendritic shape as the soldering atmosphere was changed from air to nitrogen. The interfacial microstructures revealed the presence of Ni 3 Sn and Ni 3 Sn 4 IMCs at the interface. The enhanced wettability observed under nitrogen atmosphere is attributed to the higher thermal conductivity of nitrogen gas and the formation of higher amount of Ni 3 Sn IMCs at the interface compared to air and argon atmospheres. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0339-4 Authors K. N. Prabhu, Department of Metallurgical & Materials Engineering, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, Mangalore, 575025 India M. Varun, Department of Metallurgical & Materials Engineering, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, Mangalore, 575025 India Satyanarayan, Department of Metallurgical & Materials Engineering, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, Mangalore, 575025 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The influence of Be and Cd (iron correctors) on mechanical properties and machining behavior of hypoeutectic Al-Si alloy (Al-7Si-0.5Mg-1.2Fe) processed by conventional and semi-solid metal (SSM) processing (stir casting) techniques is investigated. The alloys under investigation were prepared by controlling melt in an induction melting furnace. The stirring of SSM was carried out at a constant stirring speed of 400 rpm under constant cooling conditions from liquidus temperature. The turning operations were carried out under dry conditions on a CNC turning center using coated-carbide insert by varying cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and approaching angle. An orthogonal array, the signal-to-noise ratio, and analysis of variance were employed to study the machining performance characteristics. The results indicate that Be/Cd modification of the alloy and selected cutting parameters significantly affect the machining characteristics. The feed rate, cutting speed, and Cd as an iron corrector have more effect on the machining behavior of the alloys under study. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0287-z Authors P. K. Sood, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur, Hamirpur, 177005 Himachal Pradesh, India Rakesh Sehgal, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur, Hamirpur, 177005 Himachal Pradesh, India D. K. Dwivedi, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667 India Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    In this work, corrosion of a 16Mn line pipe steel was investigated in a simulated soil solution by weight-loss test, electrochemical measurement, and surface analysis techniques. Moreover, the implication on the pipeline integrity was analyzed. It was found that a layer of corrosion product, i.e., ferrous and ferric oxides, would form on the steel surface to inhibit the further corrosion of the steel. The structure of the corrosion product layer would change with time, resulting in the steel corrosion experiencing a mechanistic alteration. The effects of oxygen and temperature on the steel corrosion were determined. Moreover, the uniform corrosion rate of the steel is within the acceptable range, and thus does not affect the pipeline integrity. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0291-3 Authors Xin Su, Departmental of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada Zhenxing Yin, Departmental of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada Y. Frank Cheng, Departmental of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The subject of the research is optimization of the parameters of the Active Screen Plasma Nitriding (ASPN) process of high speed steel planing knives used in woodworking. The Taguchi approach was applied for development of the plan of experiments and elaboration of obtained experimental results. The optimized ASPN parameters were: process duration, composition and pressure of the gaseous atmosphere, the substrate BIAS voltage and the substrate temperature. The results of the optimization procedure were verified by the tools’ behavior in the sharpening operation performed in normal industrial conditions. The ASPN technology proved to be extremely suitable for nitriding the woodworking planing tools, which because of their specific geometry, in particular extremely sharp wedge angles, could not be successfully nitrided using conventional direct current plasma nitriding method. The carried out research proved that the values of fracture toughness coefficient K Ic are in correlation with maximum spalling depths of the cutting edge measured after sharpening, and therefore may be used as a measure of the nitrided planing knives quality. Based on this criterion the optimum parameters of the ASPN process for nitriding high speed planing knives were determined. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0288-y Authors J. Walkowicz, Institute of Mechatronics, Nanotechnology and Vacuum Technique, Koszalin University of Technology, ul. Śniadeckich 2, 75-453 Koszalin, Poland J. Staśkiewicz, Institute of Mechatronics, Nanotechnology and Vacuum Technique, Koszalin University of Technology, ul. Śniadeckich 2, 75-453 Koszalin, Poland K. Szafirowicz, Institute of Mechatronics, Nanotechnology and Vacuum Technique, Koszalin University of Technology, ul. Śniadeckich 2, 75-453 Koszalin, Poland D. Jakrzewski, Institute of Mechatronics, Nanotechnology and Vacuum Technique, Koszalin University of Technology, ul. Śniadeckich 2, 75-453 Koszalin, Poland G. Grzesiak, Institute of Mechatronics, Nanotechnology and Vacuum Technique, Koszalin University of Technology, ul. Śniadeckich 2, 75-453 Koszalin, Poland M. Stępniak, Institute of Mechatronics, Nanotechnology and Vacuum Technique, Koszalin University of Technology, ul. Śniadeckich 2, 75-453 Koszalin, Poland Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The aim of this study is to investigate the work-hardening of AA 3104-H19 aluminum alloy. Uniaxial tensile tests were carried out in both the rolling and transverse directions. In the past, some authors have used such uniaxial tensile test data and the Hollomon equation fitted to them to predict the forming limit curves. In a previous study, we showed experimentally that the Hollomon equation exponent, typically 0.07, used in such limit strain predictions is too high and should be approximately 0.04. Other authors have obviously used such a high value because they have compensated for the reduction of limit strains near the plane strain by increasing the Hollomon equation exponent. The reduction of limit strains near the plane strain occurs, as the Marciniak-Kuczynski theory, which the aforementioned authors have used, assumes a local inhomogeneity or a thinner section in the sheet to explain the local necking in stretch forming. In this study, it is shown experimentally that the Hollomon equation exponent in both the rolling and transverse directions is very close to 0.04. It is shown further that the Hollomon or Voce equations do not describe very well the work-hardening of the AA 3104-H19 alloy in either the rolling or transverse direction. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0299-8 Authors A. S. Korhonen, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16200, 00076 Aalto, Finland Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    The relevance of the structure of carbon materials and milling on the carbothermic reduction of silica to produce nano-sized silicon carbide (SiC) was studied. Graphite (crystalline) and metallurgical coke (mainly amorphous) were chosen as carbon precursors that were mixed with amorphous pure nano-sized SiO 2 and milled for different times. The SiC yield at 1450 °C for l h was influenced by the degree of milling. Extending the milling time increased SiC formation in both cases. Although some extensive milling converted both sources of carbon into amorphous phase, the amount of synthesized SiC from graphite was about 4.5-3 times higher than coke with increased extent of milling. Graphite is converted from stable crystalline state into the amorphous phase, so it absorbs more activation energy of milling and fresher active centers are created, while the already amorphous coke absorbs less energy and thus less fresh active centers are created. This energy difference acts as a driving force, resulting in higher yield of nano-sized SiC when graphite is used as carbon source. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-6 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0296-y Authors B. M. Moshtaghioun, Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology (IUT), 84156-83111 Isfahan, Iran A. Monshi, Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology (IUT), 84156-83111 Isfahan, Iran M. H. Abbasi, Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology (IUT), 84156-83111 Isfahan, Iran F. Karimzadeh, Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology (IUT), 84156-83111 Isfahan, Iran Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) is a candidate material for production tubing in oil and gas wells and subsea pipelines used to transport corrosive hydrocarbon fluids. The suitability of this material for high temperature applications is examined in this article. The uniaxial tensile properties are determined for a 25Cr SDSS over a range of temperature relevant to high pressure-high temperature oil and gas wells. It is shown that there is a significant effect of temperature on the uniaxial tensile properties. Elevated temperature was shown to reduce the Young’s modulus and increase the strain hardening index; temperature effects on these two parameters are usually neglected in the design of subsea pipelines and oil well tubulars, and this could lead to wrong predictions of the collapse pressure. The manufacturing process of the super duplex tubular did not lead to significant anisotropy in the hardness and the ultimate tensile and uniaxial yield strengths. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-9 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0273-5 Authors B. A. Lasebikan, School of Engineering, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE UK A. R. Akisanya, School of Engineering, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE UK W. F. Deans, School of Engineering, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE UK Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495

Description:    Photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) in water was examined using TiO 2 nanopowders under solar irradiation. These photocatalysts were successfully synthesized by hydrolysis of titanium tetra chloride (TiCl 4 ) in the temperature range of 70-95 °C and calcined at higher temperatures of between 400 and 900 °C. The samples prepared were characterized using x-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR). UV-Vis spectrometer was used for analyzing the concentration of MO in solution at different time intervals during the photodegradation experiment. Parameters affecting the photodegradation rate such as catalyst crystallinity, concentration of the catalyst, MO concentration, and pH of the solution have been investigated. The results indicate that TiO 2 nanopowder was antase at low calcination temperatures in the range of 400-500 °C. The sample calcined at 600 °C is composed of both anatase and rutile phase. Further increase in the temperature enhanced the intensities of diffraction peaks of the rutile phase. The size of the crystallites for all the samples prepared were found to be in the 6-13 nm range and from SEM micrographs it was in the range of 19-43 nm. The mixture of both phases exhibited a higher photoactivity in comparison with pure anatase or rutile catalysts. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-5 DOI 10.1007/s11665-012-0272-6 Authors N. R. Khalid, Department of Physics, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800 Pakistan E. Ahmed, Department of Physics, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800 Pakistan M. Ikram, Department of Physics, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800 Pakistan M. Ahmad, Department of Physics, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, 60800 Pakistan D. A. Phoenix, Institute of Nanotechnology & Bioengineering, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE UK A. Elhissi, Institute of Nanotechnology & Bioengineering, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE UK W. Ahmed, Institute of Nanotechnology & Bioengineering, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE UK M. J. Jackson, Institute of Nanotechnology & Bioengineering, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE UK Journal Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance Online ISSN 1544-1024 Print ISSN 1059-9495