Directional solidification (DS) of the eutectic alloys is an interesting concept of reinforcing intermetallics with in situ refractory metals. Considering that the morphology of eutectic microstructure governs the mechanical behavior of the material, the addition of a quaternary element to the NiAl-V system could, principally, modify the solidification microstructure, and consequently, alter its properties. The main goal of this work is to determine the influence of a quaternary element addition on the eutectic morphology of the as-cast and directionally solidified NiAl-Veutectic alloys. Samples with various compositions were arc-melted under inert atmosphere and processed in a Bridgman type solidification facility. The results obtained indicated that eutectic morphology may be effectively modified by microalloying. The conditions for the lamellar/fibrous transition were determined and a tentative explanation of the phenomenon observed was given. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.5541671126131