1. Metallographic preparation techniques for U–6wt.%Nb
- Author
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Kelly, A.M., Field, R.D., and Thoma, D.J.
- Subjects
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METALLOGRAPHY , *URANIUM alloys , *MICROSTRUCTURE , *SOLIDIFICATION , *MARTENSITE , *THERMAL properties - Abstract
Abstract: A new metallographic preparation technique has been developed for uranium–niobium (U–Nb) alloys. The technique uses a single methodology to optimally elucidate microstructural features without preparation artifacts and permits inclusion retention and identification. Specific examples of the applicability of this metallographic preparation technique are provided for U–6wt.%Nb. This technique has been successfully applied to numerous specimens with various thermomechanical histories to clearly resolve solidification, metastable martensite, and equilibrium structures. These results demonstrate that prior knowledge of a sample’s thermal history is not required for an effective metallographic evaluation and highlight the versatility of this technique. The beneficial features to reduce environmental impact are also discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2012
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