Influence of silicon-ion implantation on the oxidation behaviour of austenitic Fe-30Mn-5Al and Fe-30Mn-5Al-9Cr alloys

In the present work the influence of silicon ion implantation on the oxidation behaviour in air between 600 and 800 degrees C of an austenitic Fe-30Mn-5Al with and without 9 % Cr additions has been evaluated. Silicon ion implantation increases slightly the oxidation rate but the different stages of the oxidation are not modified substantially. Silicon content on the surface of the alloy does not result in the formation of a continuous protective SiO2 layer. In addition, the establishment of a protective alumina layer is delayed. Furthermore, silicon does not improve the adherence of the oxide scale, since the SiO2 is not located at the scale/metal interface.