A New Technology Based on Submicron Powders

Abstract

Simple and complex oxide powders of a variety of compositions can be produced to average particle sizes ranging from 100 Å to 1 μ. The microparticles may be oxides of a single metal, such as iron, nickel, cobalt, chromium, or a refractory metal, or they may constitute a molecular-scale mixture or solid solution of several of these oxides. They may be used as produced, or, under carefully controlled conditions, further processed into metals and alloys by reduction, powder metallurgy consolidation, and conventional metalworking practices. Several industrially important fields of application are expected to benefit from this development. Most significant is a new class of porous structures for self-lubricating bearings where a continuous pattern of microscopic porosity is combined with high strength. Other important applications of this new material are indicated in the field of magnets and magnetic components, high-temperature alloys, and beneficiation of chemical and metallurgical products.