Nanoparticle evolution during critical processing steps and their impact on material properties

Purpose and goal:

The project brings together a consortium of industrial partners (Gränges, Outokumpu och Surahammars Bruk) each specializing in distinct material and application. Nanosized particles plays a significant role of their materials, e.g. corrosion resistance, mechanical, thermal, electrical or magnetic properties. The project aims to conduct high-throughput, ex- and in-situ small-angle scattering experiments to investigate precipitation of nano-sized particles under process-like conditions and by material design methods relate to material properties.

Expected results and effects:

The expected outcome is to develop high-throughput methods for characterizing low fractions of nanosized particles, correlate these methods with laboratory techniques, and optimize thermodynamic simulations that will allow predicting precipitate and dissolution of these particles during production processes. Outcome of this project will help Gränges, Outokumpu and Surahammars Bruks enhance product properties, lifespans, and production processes within a sustainable and circular industry framework that minimizes environmental impact.

Approach and implementation:

A combination of neutron and high energy x-ray source will be used in small angle scattering method to study the kinematics of small particles and precipitate formation and dissolution. X-rays high flux will enable time resolved studying of kinematics and neutrons will provide extra contrast for unambiguous modeling of the data. Synchrotron and neutron data complemented with laboratory SEM, TEM and APT will provide verification and input data to the thermodynamic simulation for kinematic of precipitation in stainless steel, electrical steels and aluminum materials.