Analysis of small-angle neutron scattering from Fe–18Cr–10Mn–16Ni–0.5N and Fe–21Cr–10Mn–17Ni–0.5C austenites

Nitrogen-containing Fe–18Cr–10Mn–16Ni–0.5N and carbon-containing Fe–21Cr–10Mn–17Ni–0.5C (wt.%) austenites were studied by means of small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) after homogenization at 1100°C and quenching in water. SANS was observed in both steels and is attributed to inhomogeneities of colloidal size. The structure of the inhomogeneities is qualitatively different in carbon-containing and nitrogen-containing austenites: in the carbon alloy the inhomogeneities are characterized by a larger volume fraction, smooth and sharp interfaces; in nitrogen-containing austenite there is a fractal-like character of inhomogeneities.