The oxidation behavior of an iron-nickel alloy containing yttrium or rare earth elements between 900°C and 1200°C

A study of oxidation of an iron-nickel alloy with and without yttrium or rare earth additions is made to provide information over a range of temperature. The additions improve the oxidation resistance in air. The microfractograph features of oxide scale are discussed. It is suggested that pores existing in the interface between oxide scale and substrate may be an important factor for the good adherence which is obtained. In addition the pegging mechanism of rare earth element oxides may improve the adherence of oxide scale to substrate. An incubation period of oxidation in the alloys containing yttrium or rare earth elements is described and discussed in terms of net weight gain and weight loss due to gas evaporation.