Research Progress of the Effects of Trace S Element on the Microstructure of Cast Nickel-base Superalloys

In the process of alloy melting and vacuum pouring, the impurity S element will inevitably be introduced into the nickel-base superalloys, which will cause adverse effects on the microstructure and properties of the cast nickel-base superalloys. In this paper, the research progress of S element in cast nickel-base superalloys is summarized. The effects of S element on the microstructure are described in detail from experimental researches and first-principles. The reasons for the grain boundary embrittlement caused by S atom are discussed, and the authors wish to provide some references for the better development of cast nickel-base superalloys.