Processing of Molybdenum and TZM Alloy for High Temperature Reactors : Materials Processing and Coating Development

Scientific and technological challenges associated with the processing of molybdenum and TZM (Mo-0.6Ti-0.2Zr-0.02C) alloy was investigated. The broad objective was to study the (i) kinetics of hydrogen reduction of MoO3 to Mo and morphology of reduced Mo powder, (ii) mechanical alloying and hot isostatic pressing for the preparation of TZM alloy, (iii) densification and grain growth behavior during sintering of Mo and TZM compacts, (iv) fabrication of TZM alloy tube using powder metallurgy route, (v) hot deformation behavior of TZM alloy in 600-900C, and (vi) development of silicide and alumino-silicide based oxidation resistant coatings on TZM alloy. The experimental procedures and the outcome or results reported in this work would provide a significant basis for the future developmental work on high temperature materials suitable for construction of high temperature power generating reactors.