Optimization of the experimental conditions for high-temperature shock consolidation

The high-temperature shock consolidation technique using converging underwa ter shock wave assembly has been developed and the experimental conditions in obtaining well-consolidated bulk materials are discussed. A series of ex periments are conducted for various difficult-to-consolidate powders by cha nging the temperature up to 1100 degrees C and the shock pressure up to abo ut 50 GPa. Amount of cracks normally generated under room-temperature exper iments could be decreased by using the high-temperature technique proposed here. The result is brought by the following reasons; (1) decreased shock p ressure, (2) increased ductility and (3) enhanced surface melting of the po wders. The pressure required for the consolidation is strongly related to t he hardness of the used powders. The application of high temperature could decrease the hardness, and subsequently decrease the pressure required for the consolidation. Optimization of the conditions necessary for the consoli dation and bonding are discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.