Three-dimensional atom probe analysis of intergranular segregation and precipitation behavior in Ti-Nb-stabilized low-Cr ferritic stainless steel

Sequential phenomena of intergranular segregation and precipitation in Ti-Nb-stabilized 11 wt.% Cr ferritic stainless steel have been investigated. During aging, C and Ti diffuse into the grain boundary before Nb and Cr and form TiC preferentially. The solute Cr atoms segregate along the grain boundary, consequently resulting in Cr depletion in the vicinity of the grain boundary.