SYNTHESIS OF ADVANCED LIGHTWEIGHT METALS BY POWDER-METALLURGY TECHNIQUES

Synthesis by 'far from equilibrium' processes allows development of no vel crystal structures and microstructures, leading to achievement of enhanced physical and mechanical properties. Three far from equilibriu m techniques are reviewed (with emphasis on the amount of departure fr om equilibrium): mechanical alloying, plasma processing, and physical vapour deposition. Consideration is given to solubility extension, for mation of nanostructured grains, amorphisation, and synthesis of inter metallic compounds. Examples are drawn from systems based on the light metals aluminium, magnesium, and titanium.