Development of Cerocon Forging Process Methodology fro Reproducible

There is significant interest in the use of net-shape processing to fabricate heavy metals to circumvent the problems of strain hardening and high cost issues related to machining. Ceracon has demonstrated the feasibility of forming tantalum plates having ultrafine grained microstructure, which exhibits isotropic mechanical behavior at low and high strain rates, and a significantly higher static strength than wrought and other powder metallurgy processed tantalum. However, an understanding of the micromechanics of the grain boundary plasticity needs to be developed, to assure the suitability of this material for warhead applications. A Phase I program is planned, which will investigate the relationship between this unconventional microstructure, processing, and dynamic mechanical properties. This work is expected to lead to the development of intelligent process control to consistently produce desired microstructures in tantalum for warhead applications. Phase II program will address intelligent process control and process scale up to facricate tantalum plate materisl for DOD applications.