An improved thermodynamic modeling of the Fe–Cr system down to zero kelvin coupled with key experiments

Abstract

A thermodynamic modeling of the Fe–Cr system down to 0 K is performed on the basis of our recent comprehensive review of this binary system [W. Xiong, M. Selleby, Q. Chen, J. Odqvist, Y. Du, Evaluation of phase equilibria and thermochemical properties in the Fe–Cr system, Crit. Rev. Solid State Mater. Sci. 35 (2010) 125–152]. The model predicts a sign change for the magnetic ordering energy of mixing rather than the enthalpy of mixing in the bcc phase at 0 K. Designed key experiments are performed not only to check the validity of the present modeling but also to assist in understanding the mechanism for spinodal decomposition of the Fe–Cr alloy. Heat capacities and Curie temperatures of several Fe-rich alloys are determined between 320 and 1093 K by employing differential scanning calorimetry. The measured heat capacities are found to be in remarkable agreement with the prediction based on the present modeling. Microstructural patterns and frequency distribution diagrams of Cr are studied in alloys containing 26.65,