FEM analysis based on the 3D-NCS model for precipitate morphology in the BCC/HCP system

This study targets an examination of the minimum-energy shape of precipitates in BCC/HCP systems in terms of a lattice matching and an elastic strain. Firstly, a 3D-NCS model is applied for estimating the effective invariant line direction and preferred habit planes by geometrical atomic matching. On the basis of the modeling results, an elastic strain state surrounding and within the precipitate is investigated by a FEM analysis. Consequently, the priority of the reduction of the elastic strain energy is higher than that of interphase boundary energy, in terms of determination of the preferred precipitate shape. This fact results from an anisotropic property of a HCP lattice, showing a characteristic common to the BCC/HCP system alloys.