Analysis of Complex Inclusions in Rare Earth Element Treated Steel

Research reveals that the addition of rare earth elements (REEs), such as La and Ce, can improve the mechanical properties of steels by modifying inclusions within them. Measurement of the properties (size distribution, abundance and composition) of inclusions related to the REEs is therefore of great importance.
A challenge for automated analysis is as the different parts of these complex inclusions have very different contrast in the back scattered electron (BSE) image and as such cannot be detected as single inclusions by traditional means. In AZtecSteel, it is possible to automatically detect and measure complex inclusions in REE treated steels for correct morphological and compositional analysis of inclusion content.

By downloading this application note, you will learn:

• In AZtecSteel it is possible to detect an inclusion that contains multiple phases including those that are both lighter and darker than the matrix as a single inclusion
• Morphology and composition of complex inclusions can be correctly measured as a whole