X-ray Diffraction Studies of Fe-N Bulk-Processed in a Magnetic Field Using Synchrotron Radiation

Abstract

The volume fractions of α″ phase Fe₁₆N₂ in bulk samples were estimated using X-ray diffraction data. The SPring-8 synchrotron radiation facility was utilized for data collection. Samples were prepared in an NH₃+H₂ atmosphere, and a magnetic field was applied to reduce the amount of remanent γ phase. Samples were then annealed for varying times (0.25-512 h). Rietveld analysis was applied to obtain the volume fractions of each phase generated in the samples. The results showed relatively small fractions of the α″ phase were present. The discrepancy between the present analyses and the results of Mössbauer measurements are also discussed.