DECOMPOSITION OF GAMMA BY BAINITIC REACTION IN U-0.6TI-0.3V ALLOY

Transformations of the gamma and beta phases in uranium-rich uranium-t ransition metal systems have certain similarities to the reactions in ferrous steels. Evidence for the pearlitic, bainitic and martensitic m odes of decomposition of the beta-phase in uranium alloys is well docu mented. It is also well known that the decomposition of the gamma-phas e involves formation of martensite or pearlite-like product, depending on the temperature at which it takes place. In the present paper the decomposition of the quenched gamma phase in ternary U-0.6 wt% Ti-0.3 wt% V alloy was investigated by transmission electron microscopy and X -ray diffraction. The results indicate that the reaction in the gamma- quenched U-0.6 wt% Ti-0.3 wt% V alloy has some of the characteristics of bainitic reaction.