An Innovative Processing Approach to Evaluate the Effect of Texture on Heavy Metal Properties .

The control of texture in heavy metals has the potential to improve dynamic properties' performance. A novel powder metallurgy process will be used to produce controlIed microstructure in tantalum and molybdenum materials. The Ceracon forging process will be used to produce fine grained tantalum and molybdenum materials having both texture and isotropic texture. The role of oxygen will also be investigated for its effect on microstructure and formability. Material produced using this full density process will be tested for dynamic mechanical properties in collaboration with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The data on texture-property relationship developed in Phase, l will be compared with a broader data base, available from LLNL, on the effect of other methods of processing Ta plate material. Recommendations will be made to the Air Force on the material and optimum texture level for Phase II studies.