Vacuum brazing of GH99 superalloy using graphene reinforced BNi-2 composite filler

A novel graphene reinforced BNi-2 composite filler was developed for brazing GH99 superalloy. The interfacial microstructure of brazed joints was analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscope and a transmission electron microscope. The effects of graphene addition on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of brazed joints were investigated, and the strengthening mechanism of graphene was analyzed. The results revealed that due to the addition of graphene, M₂₃(C,B)₆ compounds were synthesized in the γ solid solution and brittle boride precipitates near the brazing seam decreased. Graphene was effective in retarding solute atoms diffusion thus impeding the precipitation of borides. Furthermore, the low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of graphene was conducive to relieve stress concentration of the brazed joints during the cooling process. The shear strengths of brazed joints were significantly improved by exerting the strengthening effect of graphene. The maximum shear strengths of the brazed joints were 410.4 MPa and 329.7 MPa at room temperature and 800 °C, respectively.