Microstructural characterization of novel Mo–Re–Al2O3 composite

•Novel 98%(75Mo/25Al2O3)+2%Re composite exhibits high relative density of 98.1%.•Rhenium partitions to the molybdenum matrix forming the Mo–Re solid solution.•FIB-SEM tomography revealed the 3D distribution and morphology of pores.

Mo–Al2O3 composites are the promising materials for high temperature applications. Their mechanical properties can be improved by addition of rhenium. In the present work a novel 98%(75Mo/25Al2O3)+2%Re (vol%) composite was produced by the powder metallurgy route. Electron microscopy images combined with elemental maps have shown the distribution of rhenium in molybdenum matrix. The new composite exhibits high relative density of 98.1%. FIB-SEM tomography revealed the 3D arrangement and morphology of pores. Pores irregular in shape are distributed on metal/ceramic grain boundaries, while within the grains almost spherical pores are present.