Creep-induced local lattice parameter changes in a monocrystalline nickel-base superalloy

The γ-γ lattice mismatch of specimens of the monocrystalline nickel-base superalloy SRR 99 has been measured by a high-resolution X-ray diffraction technique for the undeformed state and after high-tem-perature creep deformation. During creep deformation beyond the minimum creep rate (total strain =0.5%), the lattice mismatches, measured in and perpendicular to the 001] stress axis, respectively, un-dergo changes in opposite directions. This reflects the buildup of a complex deformation-induced triaxial state of internal stress in the phases y and γ. The overall resolved shear stresses that act in γ and y due to the combined action of the external and internal stresses are estimated, and the conditions under which cutting of the γ phase by dislocations should occur are discussed.