Designing new metallic materials is costly and time-consuming, due to the inefficiencies in computational predictions, sample fabrication and extensive microstructural characterization required. Even with machine learning aided design, compositional choices require bulk samples to be produced and validate the prediction microstructural data. To facilitate the alloy design loop, we developed a high-throughput rapid experimental alloy development (HT-READ) methodology by integrating material screening process and automating various measurement technologies. Samples are fabricated via laser-based additive manufacturing, which are printed to special ‘wagon-wheel’ geometries, so that the automated measurement can be achieved using the existing commercial equipment. Different alloy compositions are produced via the mixture of elemental and alloy powders at the calculated ratios for 3D printing, while the accuracy of the bulk sample concentrations is evaluated. The specimens of each separate composition are aligned in this rotationally symmetric ‘wagon-wheel’, enabling the automated measurements for each ‘wagon-wheel’ spoke, including microhardness, XRD, SEM-EDS and SEM-EBSD. Specifically, automated EBSD can only be achieve using this rotationally symmetric sample design to maintain the proper sample orientation in an automated manner. Finally, using this approach, the throughput achievable using the HT-READ methodology is truly a paradigm change is metallic alloy development.
2025-04-09 09:00:00
