Enhanced mechanical properties of a Ni–W–Al alloy in the as-cast state

An as-cast Ni81W10Al9 (at.%) alloy with remarkable mechanical properties was developed by adjusting the alloying element with an appropriate enthalpy of mixing. A yield strength of ∼640 MPa was achieved for the as-cast Ni81W10Al9 alloy, which is approximately three times larger than that of its Al-free counterpart. Extensive L12 phase nanoscale precipitations were generated in the Ni81W10Al9 alloy, which provided strong strengthening by blocking dislocation sliding. The contribution of precipitation shearing to the strength is evaluated to be 366.4 MPa. The Taylor lattices as well as microbands were formed owing to the dislocation slipping, resulting in significant strain hardening in the plastic deformation region. The alloying method for strengthening the material in the as-cast state serves as an effective way to shorten the material preparation process. •Parameter enthalpy of mixing was considered for alloying design in Ni–W-X alloys.•An as-cast Ni81W10Al9 alloy was developed with excellent mechanical properties.•Extensive L12 phase nanoscale precipitations and short-range orderings were observed.•Typical Taylor lattice structure and microbands were developed in plastic deformation.