Weldability and welding technology of oxide dispersion-strengthened (ODS) superalloys: a review

Oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) superalloys are a type of high-performance material that uses nanoscale oxide particles (such as Y 2 O 3 and Al 2 O 3 ) as strengthening phases. Due to their excellent high-temperature strength and radiation resistance, they have important application prospects in aerospace, nuclear energy, and other fields. However, the agglomeration and decomposition of oxide particles, the formation of porosity defects, and high residual stress during the welding process limit its engineering applications. This article systematically reviews the research progress of ODS superalloy welding. Introduced the alloy system and the mechanisms of dispersion strengthening and grain refinement strengthening. The three major challenges in the welding process were analyzed in detail: the evolution of oxide particles, porosity defects, and long-term performance degradation. Based on this, the article discusses strategies to improve welding quality. Optimization of process parameters requires a balance between defect control and retention of oxide particles; Composition design can regulate the content of key elements to improve the thermal stability of particles, but it also comes with a loss of some performance; Post-weld treatment faces a fundamental contradiction between stress relief and particle stability. Future research directions such as AI-assisted process optimization and in-situ characterization technology were proposed to provide reference for promoting the development of ODS superalloy welding technology.