Connection between relaxation spectrum of internal friction and structure state in niobium base alloy

Structural changes, distribution of alloying elements and the dislocation structure of Nb-Zr-N alloy have been studied in strained state and after annealing at 900-1900 deg C. The investigation involved the electron microscopy method and internal friction measurements. The damping peaks spectrum is examined, particularly at high temperatures. It is shown that in the annealed alloy the nitrogen atoms form Zr-N and Zr-N-Zr complexes. Nitrogen solubility in the alloy after different treatments is estimated. Deformation below the recrystallization temperature is shown to be accompanied by redistribution of incorporation impurities into the cell boundaries. Further thermal treatment results in the formation of disperse particles and stabilization of cell boundaries