Atom probe tomography (APT) has significantly contributed to our understanding and development of structural materials through the detailed analysis of solute behavior, cluster formation, precipitate evolution, and interfacial and grain boundary chemistry. Whether one is concerned with light alloys, Ni-based superalloys, or steels, the design objectives are similar: developing alloys with optimum properties (strength, toughness, ductility, fatigue resistance, creep strength) through controlled precipitation, grain structure, solute state, and combination of phases. Performance in service, through microstructural stability and resistance to degradation, is also a major design criterion for the development of novel materials.

Extended abstract of a paper presented at Microscopy and Microanalysis 2011 in Nashville, Tennessee, USA, August 7–August 11, 2011.

Extended abstract of a paper presented at Microscopy and Microanalysis 2009 in Richmond, Virginia, USA, July 26 – July 30, 2009

Mechanical properties, such as hardness and impact toughness, of ferrite-containing stainless steels are greatly affected by long-term aging at intermediate temperatures. It is known that the α-α′ spinodal decomposition occurring in the iron–chromium-based ferrite is responsible for this aging susceptibility. This decomposition can be characterized unambiguously by atom probe analysis, allowing comparison both with the existing theories of spinodal decomposition and the evolution of some mechanical properties. It is then possible to predict the evolution of hardness of industrial components during service, based on the detailed knowledge of the involved aging process.