Texture Evolution of Bainitic Steels Processed from Nickel Lateritic Ores: A Neutron-Diffraction Investigation

Abstract

This study investigated the texture evolution of bainitic steel samples processed from lateritic nickel ores with varying heat treatment times. The samples were austenitized, air-cooled, and subjected to bainitic heat treatment at 532°C for 15 and 30 minutes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that the sample treated at 532°C for 15 minutes, developed bainitic plates within the austenitic matrix due to the relatively rapid air cooling. Conversely, the sample, heat-treated at 532°C for 30 minutes, exhibited a combination of bainitic and pearlitic microstructures. Neutron diffraction analysis using software showed moderate-to-weak textures in both samples, indicating dislocation polygonization resulting from prolonged heat treatment. The results suggest that further research is needed to investigate the texture evolution of bainitic steels from nickel lateritic ores after plastic deformation. This work contributes to understanding the microstructural characteristics of bainitic steel derived from nickel lateritic ores, which may have significant implications for the production and application of these steels in the future.