Change in the Work Function of the Electrons In Steel after Exposure to a Pulsed Magnetic Field

Abstract

In this article, we present the results of a study of the influence of a high-frequency magnetic field on the change in the work function of an electron in carbon steel (0.45% C) after heat treatment, including normalization, quenching, and temper hardening. The electron work function is determined on metallographic sections. The electron work function undergoes the greatest changes after exposure to a magnetic field in normalized steel, as well as in quenched and tempered steel. After quenching, the work function of an electron in steel does not change significantly. The effect observed can be attributed to the alignment of the microrelief on the surface of the samples, which is formed during preparation of a metallographic section, under the influence of a magnetic field. This results in a reduction in the number of mesoscopic surface defects.