Duplex γ/α-phase evolution of biocompatible high-nitrogen stainless steel in additive manufacturing

Addressing the escalating complexity and performance demands of stainless steels in industrial and biomedical contexts, duplex-phase high-nitrogen (N) nickel-free stainless steel (DHNAS) comprising austenitic (γ) and ferritic (α) phases represents a prospective solution. By synergistically integrati...

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Main Authors: Yufeng Tao, Liansheng Lin, Xudong Ren, Xuejiao Wang, Xia Cao, Yunxia Ye, Erjin Zhang, Heng Gu, Zijie Dai
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Elsevier 2025-09-01
Series:Journal of Materials Research and Technology
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Online Access:http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2238785425020277
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Summary:Addressing the escalating complexity and performance demands of stainless steels in industrial and biomedical contexts, duplex-phase high-nitrogen (N) nickel-free stainless steel (DHNAS) comprising austenitic (γ) and ferritic (α) phases represents a prospective solution. By synergistically integrating γ-phase ductility and α-phase strength via dislocation density engineering, DHNAS demonstrates exceptional adaptability for mass production or bespoke applications. However, opaque process-property relationships, microstructural inhomogeneity, and geometric constraints hinder its additive manufacturing (AM) capabilities. This work incorporates laser selective melting protocols with gas-atomized BiossN micro-powders to unravel the thermodynamic evolution of γ/α duplex-phase during the AM process. Through parameter modulation, we establish predictive phase fraction control (0.5–44.9 % γ-phase), achieve high nitrogen supersaturation (1.01 wt% via Mn alloying and N2 gas protection), and maintain exceptional biocompatibility (>99 % fibroblast viability over 14-day cytotoxicity assays). Artificial tunability of microstructured high-nitrogen γ/α duplex-phase at tight topological control promises transformative opportunities not possessed by individual ferrite or austenitic phase, allowing pre-programming mechanics (density, strength, hardness, and tensile properties) for next-generation industrial or implantable biomedical uses requiring complex geometries and multi-functions.
ISSN:2238-7854