LAUSR

Abstract Nd-Fe-B powders of different compositions were produced by gas atomization. These powders were annealed between 1000 and 1150 °C for several times to study the microstructural evolution. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to determine the thermal transitions on the as-atomized powders and after slow solidification. The microstructure was studied by high resolution scanning electron microscopy at each stage. Electron back scattering diffraction was used to measure grain size and confirm that gas atomized powders are isotropic. It was observed the formation of necks between the particles, densification, and grain growth due to liquid phase sintering. Grain growth and densification occur in parallel by a dissolution-reprecipitation mechanism. The effect of Nd content and Nb addition on the microstructural changes was analyzed in detail, particularly on grain growth. The degree of sintering increases with Nd content, as this element enhances the formation of the liquid phase. Nb addition leads to the formation of precipitates that delay densification and grain growth at 1000 °C, but promote abnormal grain growth at 1100 °C.