Abstract: Unbalanced properties for both fine-grained gamma and coarse-grained lamellar microstructures typically produced in gamma alloys are described. Efforts for the improvements are reviewed along with some experimental results. Empirical improvements have been made in cast alloys, which have led gamma alloys to a viable materials technology and to the development of various application areas for gas turbine engines as well as automotive engines. Efforts to understand fundamental and applied aspects leading to the improvements are assessed for wrought alloys. Optimization of microstructures through process control,innovative heat treatments, alloy chemistry modification and their combinations have progressed in the endeavor. Similar efforts have just begun for cast alloys where work on fundamental understanding has been lagging. Future directions are suggested for further improvements and predicted for the development of higher temperature/performance alloys.

Key words: gamma TiAl, cast alloys, wrought alloys, designed microstructures...