Transformation and alloying mechanisms in sub-stoichiometric titanium carbonitrides - tungsten high energy ball milled powders

► The milling atmosphere affected the lattice strain of milled products, and the kinetics of solid state dissolution between the powder constituents. ► De-nitriding occurred when the powder mixtures are milled in argon for longer times. ► The refinement of the crystallite size alone did not play a determinant role in the solid state dissolution process. ► The release of the stored crystallite lattice strain energy appeared to be the major determinant in mechanical alloying.