Duplex stainless steels: a high mechanical properties stainless steels family.

Abstract

Background/aims: Duplex stainless steels constitute a high strength stainless steel family with high corrosion resistance properties. The use of them has dramatically grown in the last 10 years, particularly in the fields of off-shore, chemical tankers and chemical industries; however, the high strength also makes them suitable for many other applications. Results and conclusions: After a short presentation of the technical history, the main mechanical properties including those of welded joints are presented and discussed related to the microstructural aspects. Comparison with other materials, new potential applications and future research axes are also discussed.