Short-range ordering of heavy-element columns in nickel-based superalloys

In order to obtain comprehensive performance, heavy elements were added into superalloys for solid-solution hardening. It is found that, rather than adopting random distributions, the heavy atoms prefer to form short-range ordered columns with heavy-element stripes 1–2 nm in length. This is supported by our ab initio calculations. Owing to the strong bonding strength between the refractory elements and nickel atoms, this short-range ordering may be beneficial to the mechanical performances of superalloys.