J Mater Sci Technol ›› 2012, Vol. 28 ›› Issue (8): 728-736.

• Iron and Steel • Previous Articles     Next Articles

A Criterion for the Change from Fast to Slow Regime of Cementite Dissolution in Fe−C−Mn Steels

M. Gouné1,2), P. Maugis3), J. Drillet1)   

  1. 1) ArcelorMittal Research Maiziµeres, Voie Romaine, BP 30320, Maiziµeres-lµes-Metz 57283, France
    2) ICMCB-CNRS, 87 avenue du Docteur Schweitzer, Pessac 33609, France
    3) IM2NP-UMR CNRS 6242 & Aix-Marseille University, Avenue Escadrille Normandie Niemen-Case 142-13397 Marseille Cedex 20, France
  • Received:2011-08-28 Revised:2011-12-01 Online:2012-08-31 Published:2012-08-30
  • Contact: M. Gouné

Abstract:

The present study clarifies the role of Mn in cementite on the driving force of cementite dissolution and the growth of austenite. From an experimental study, the effects of manganese composition and temperature on the cementite dissolution were shown. From a theoretical analysis based on thermodynamic and kinetics considerations, a criterion for the change from fast to slow regime of cementite dissolution was proposed. This criterion is in good agreement with the experimental results. It can be easily calculated and can define the composition and temperature ranges where the cementite dissolution is slow or fast.

Key words: Phase transformation, Thermodynamics, Kinetics, Cementite dissolution, Steel