Published online by Cambridge University Press: 25 February 2011
Rapidly solidified (RS) Al-Er, Al-Nd, and Al-Gd ribbons were prepared by pendant drop melt extraction (PDME). The microstructures were studied in detail by optical and transmission electron microscopy. A wide range of microstructures are observed, including “conventional” RS type zones, a cellular structure surrounded by a degenerate eutectic and coupled (lamellar) eutectic structures. A bimodal precipitate distribution is seen in many areas of the ribbons. A series of isochronal heat treatments was conducted to determine the relative thermal stability of these microstructures, which were evaluated by Knoop microhardness measurements.