Enhancing performance and microstructure analysis in laser welded of R60702 zirconium alloy and 304 stainless steel with TA2/ Q235 composite interlayer

Zirconium (Zr) alloy and stainless steel (SS) will form brittle intermetallic compounds (IMCs) during the welding process, which will reduce the performance and reliability of the joint. To solve this problem, the TA2/Q235 composite interlayer was added between the Zr alloy and the SS. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the joint were evaluated. The experimental results show that the formation of IMCs in Zr alloy and SS joints can be completely inhibited by laser welded with the addition of interlayer. The final mechanical properties of the joint were determined by the weld of TA2-Zr alloy, when the joint strength reaches 161.64 MPa. The fracture surface of the joint presents a brittle fracture mode. The main product of the fracture surface is alpha-Zr and a small amount of alpha-Ti and (Ti, Zr) solid solution.