Crystallographic, microstructure and mechanical characteristics of dynamically processed IN718 superalloy

Highlights: • Measurement of detonation velocity and compaction of powder are achieved together. • A plastic explosive detonation results into dense compacts without grain-growth. • We have studied crystallographic, micromechanical and microstructural features. • The results show no segregation within the compacts. • Density (98%), microhardness (470 ± 3)Hv, microstrain (0.3%), UTS (806 MPa) are obtained. - Abstract: Dynamic consolidation of IN718 superalloy powder without grain-growth and negligible density gradient is accomplished through explosively generated shock wave loading. The compaction of powder and measurement of detonation velocity are achieved successfully in a single-shot experiment by employing instrumented detonics. A plastic explosive having a detonation velocity of the order of 7.1 km/s in a direct proximity with superalloy powder is used for the consolidation process. The compacted specimens are examined for structural, microstructure and mechanical characteristics. X-ray diffraction (XRD) study suggests intact crystalline structure of the compacts. A small micro-strain (0.26%) is observed by using Williamson–Hall method. Wavelength dispersive spectroscopy indicates no segregation within the shock processed superalloy compacted specimens. The monoliths investigated for fractography by using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) show original dendritic structure accompanied by re-solidified molten regions across the interparticle boundaries. Depth-sensing indentations (at 1.96 N) on compacted specimens show excellent micro-hardness of the order of (470 ± 3)Hv. Tensile and compressive strengths of the superalloy monolith are observed to be 806 and 822 MPa, respectively