Abstract
Effects of Ti alloying during laser-induced Ni silicide formation is studied. Unique triple layer microstructures were found with the presence of supercell in the
NiSi
2
grains formed at the interface. This supercell formation was caused by a local ordering of Ni and Si atoms that favor lower free energy during rapid solidification. Ti rapidly segregates from the alloy melt and forms a protective
TiO
x
overlayer on the surface during solidification. Melt front progressing towards the Ni-rich region leads to quenching of an amorphous layer sandwiched between
NiSi
2
grains and the
TiO
x
overlayer.