Effect of addition of aluminum on the evolution of microstructure in HITPERM class Fe44Co44Zr7B4Cu1 alloy

The paper reports the effect of the addition of small amount of Al on the microstructure and properties of HITPERM class rapidly solidified Fe44Co44Zr7B4Cu1 glassy alloy. Using three dimensional atom probe measurements we present evidence for the formation of Cu clusters on annealing in the metallic glass matrix of the Al containing alloy Fe43Co43Al2Zr7B4Cu1. Such clusters are otherwise absent in the parent alloy under similar conditions. The Cu clusters provides heterogeneous nucleation sites for the formation of bcc α′-FeCo phase leading to an increase in number density of this nanocrystalline phase and thereby enhancing the magnetic properties.

► Enhanced permeability in nanocrystalline HITPERM type alloys by Al substitution.
► Microstructural refinement due to addition of Al.
► Evidence for formation of copper clusters using 3DAP technique.