Strengthening due to non-random solid solutions

There are several theories which indicate that a short-range order arrangement of solute atoms in a solid solution should result in strengthening, that is, strengthening greater than that which would occur in a random solid solution of the same alloy. These theories do not take into account the elastic interactions between the solute atoms and the dislocations. The present results indicate that if elastic interactions are considered then a short-range order arrangement can lead to reduction in strength of an alloy as compared to the alloy with a random arrangement of solute atoms and as expected clustering leads to strengthening.