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At least 1,081 records · Page 60

An e.s.c.a. study of atomic oxygen interactions with phosphazene-coated polyimide films

Metallic as well as most nonmetallic materials experience oxidation and mass loss via surface erosion in low earth orbit as shown in previous Space Shuttle flights. This study is an evaluation of select polyphosphazene polymers and their resistance to atomic oxygen attack. Electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis examinations of the surfaces of polyphosphazene coatings were monitored for microstructural changes induced during exposures to atomic oxygen. Sample exposures in oxygen plasmas and O(3P) beam were compared as to their effect on surface compositional changes in the polyphosphazene coating. High resolution line scans revealed rearrangements in the polymer backbone and scissioning reactions involving fluorocarbon units of long chain fluoroalkoxy pendant groups. Atom percents and peak areas of all species provided a detailed profile of the microstructural changes induced in phosphazene polymers as a result of exposures to atomic oxygen.

Fewell, Larry L.↗

Mullite Whiskers and Mullite-whisker Felt

The Naval Surface Warfare Center has developed processes for the preparation of mullite (3(Al2O3)(dot)2(SiO2)) whiskers and mullite-whisker felt. Three patents on the technology were issued in 1990. The processes are based on chemical reactions between AlF3, Al2O3, and SiO2. The felt is formed in-situ during the processing of shaped powdered precursors. It consists of randomly oriented whiskers which are mutually intergrown forming a rigid structure. The microstructure and properties of the felt and size of the whiskers can be modified by varying the amount of Al2O3 in the starting mixture. Loose mullite whiskers can be used as a reinforcement for polymer-, metal-, and ceramic-matrix composites. The felt can be used as preforms for fabricating composite materials as well as for thermal insulation and high temperature, chemically stable filters for liquids (melts) and gases.

Talmy, Inna G.↗

The Effects of Proton Radiation on the Structure of Diamond Films

Diamond possesses many of the sought after material properties desired in present day applications and is also quite radiation resistant. These characteristics make it an ideal candidate for insertion into MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) technologies, particularly for space-based applications. Most prior radiation studies investigated single crystal, bulk diamond specimens, not polycrystalline thin films. This investigation examined the microstructural effects of irradiating polycrystalline diamond films with various proton dosages (10(exp 15) - 10(exp 17) H+/sq cm). Scanning Electron Microscopy, micro-Raman Spectroscopy, and micro-X-ray Diffraction techniques were used to examine the effects as a function of depth. Strain values were calculated. Results indicate that the diamond lattice is retained, even at maximum irradiation levels. Polycrystalline silicon was also examined for comparative purposes.

Newton, Robert Lee↗

Making & Breaking the Rules for DED Design

Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) is widely used to describe design activities and guidelines employed in the creation of Additively Manufactured (AM) parts. Basic design rules for widely adopted processes like Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) are relatively understood including material performance, part size constraints, self-supporting angles, overhangs, wall thicknesses, and feature resolution. Complexity is often inherent with PBF using organically inspired solutions through generative design and topology optimization software to create designs that often cannot be realized via traditional manufacturing processes. The design rules for Directed Energy Deposition (DED) are less well known, and, in some cases, the lack of understanding is likely inhibiting broader application of the various DED processes. This presentation covers key design rules for DED fusion processes and elucidates opportunities like multi-material deposition and build approaches ranging from basic features to complex large-scale parts. Complementary to the opportunistic characteristics of DfAM for DED, Manufacture for AM (MfAM) encompasses the restrictive aspects of the manufacturing lifecycle with limitations due to bead width and wall thickness, self-supporting angles, surface texture, microstructural evolution, and residual stresses. AM enabled part design must always consider the entire value chain starting with incoming feedstock (e.g. plate, wire, or powder) and progressing through the printing process, post-processing (e.g. machining, inspection), and final system assembly. Key considerations, like the tradeoffs between feature resolution and build rate, for process and part selection and economic assessments will be discussed as DED is often traded against other AM processes. After highlighting typical DED design rules, we will also show how some of those rules can be broken via use cases and part designs that span the full spectrum of DED processes with examples of various DED part designs.

Additive Manufacturing↗

The effect of fiber microstructure on evolution of residual stresses in silicon carbide/titanium aluminide composites

This paper examines the effect of the morphology of the SCS6 silicon carbide fiber on the evolution of residual stresses in SiC/Ti composites. A micromechanics model based on the concentric cylinder concept is presented which is used to calculate residual stresses in a SiC/Ti composite during axisymmetric cooling by a spatially uniform temperature change. The silicon carbide fiber is modeled as a layered material with five distinct transversely isotropic and orthotropic, elastic layers, whereas the titanium matrix is taken to be isotropic, with temperature-dependent elastoplastic properties. The results arc compared with those obtained based on the assumption that the silicon carbide fiber is isotropic and homogeneous.

Pindera, Marek-Jerzy↗

Metallurgical evaluation of factors influencing the ductility of aged T-111

The metallurgical factors influencing the ductility of T-111 (Ta-8W-2Hf) alloy following long-time exposures of GTA welds and tubing in the temperature range 982 C (1800 F) through 1316 C (2400 F) were evaluated by means of scanning and transmission electron microscopy, Auger electron emission spectroscopy, and optical metallographic procedures. No classical aging response occurs in the alloy over the temperature range studied. The ductility impairment implied by previous investigations is not the result of microstructural response of the alloy to thermal exposures. Intergranular failure in the GTA sheet welds appears the result of random contamination by silicon, potassium, and/or fluorine at the grain boundaries of the fusion zones. Exposure to lithium at high temperatures had no adverse effects on the ductility of T-111 tubing. These materials were, however, sensitive to post-age handling and testing procedures.

Gold, R. E.↗

Processing of Alumina-Toughened Zirconia Composites

Dense and crack-free 10-mol%-yttria-stabilized zirconia (10YSZ)-alumina composites, containing 0 to 30 mol% of alumina, have been fabricated by hot pressing. Release of pressure before onset of cooling was crucial in obtaining crack-free material. Hot pressing at 1600 C resulted in the formation of ZrC by reaction of zirconia with grafoil. However, no such reaction was observed at 1500 C. Cubic zirconia and -alumina were the only phases detected from x-ray diffraction indicating no chemical reaction between the composite constituents during hot pressing. Microstructure of the composites was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Density and elastic modulus of the composites followed the rule-of-mixtures. Addition of alumina to 10YSZ resulted in lighter, stronger, and stiffer composites by decreasing density and increasing strength and elastic modulus.

Bansal, Narottam P.↗

Apollo Sample 64455: Petrologic and Geochemical Characterization of a Glass-Coated Impact Melt Rock

Introduction and Background: Impact melts are a key product of the impact cratering process. Impact melts can turbulently entrain pre-existing rock fragments, and melt part of those entrained materials until thermal equilibrium is achieved [1–3]. Lunar impact melt rocks are valuable for determining the precise ages of basin-forming and cratering events, which anchor the cratering chronology and dynamics of the entire solar system [4, and references therein]. Additionally, entrained clasts can inform on the petrology and age of crustal materials that predate the melt-forming impact. In lithologies where no pristine samples are available, entrained materials may hold the record of endogenous lunar volatiles, provided we can untangle their impact histories as high temperature impact melt can heat the clasts and may alter their native volatiles or isotopic signatures [5–6]. Here, we characterize an Apollo 16 sample, 64455,70B, in an effort to understand the physical, microstructural, and geochemical consequences of impact melt contact metamorphism. We acquired optical light and x-ray maps of the sample, as well as quantitative analyses via electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). These tasks allow us to better understand the interaction between impact melts and entrained clasts, ultimately closing knowledge gaps in high-temperature impact processing on planetary surfaces. Sample Description: Sample 64455 is an oblong crystalline rock encased in glass to form an egg-like shape [7–8]. The impact melt coating has altered the outer (1 to 2 mm) rind of the crystalline rock and has preserved schlieren. The interior crystalline rock is likely a crystalline impact melt rock based on its bulk Ir content of 2.25 parts per billion [9]. The composition of the impact melt glass rind cannot be solely derived from the crystalline interior, the glassy rind is more aluminous and less magnesian [10]. Neither the crystalline interior nor the glassy rind were radiometrically age dated, although several studies investigated its cosmogenic isotopes and exposure ages, which reveal the sample was exposed on the lunar surface for ~1–2 Ma [11–13]. Preliminary Results: The interior crystalline rock consists primarily of plagioclase with interstitial pyroxene and olivine. Plagioclase grains are zoned and compositions range from An97–89, while pyroxene compositions generally range from En68Fs19Wo13 to En82Fs15Wo3 and olivine are Fo77 to Fo85. Minor phases include Fe-Ni metal, Ca-phosphates, a K- and Si-rich phase, sulfides, and Fe-phosphides. The glass rind contains approximately 44 wt.% SiO2, 25 wt.% Al2O3, 6 wt.% FeO, 8 wt.% MgO, and 14 wt.% CaO, with other oxides at <1 wt.% each, although the composition of the glass becomes more variable closest to the crystalline rock. The rind consists of rounded plagioclase, pyroxene, and olivine crystals with interstitial melt. In some locations, the rounded crystals are surrounded by closely-packed, blade-like crystals, <5 µm in width. These results indicate that the crystalline interior has partially melted where in contact with the high-temperature impact melt and while further investigation is needed, pyroxene may have preferentially melted relative to olivine and plagioclase. Future Work: We plan to conduct electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) mapping in order to determine crystallinity and crystal orientation. Next using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) data in conjunction with EBSD and EPMA information, we will model the diffusion of moderately volatile elements between the melt and remnant crystals.

A C Stadermann↗

Microstructure and mechanical properties of bulk yttria-partially-stabilized zirconia

A commercially available bulk 4.5 mole percent yttria-(Y2O3) partially stabilized zirconia (PSZ) was studied by light microscopy, X-ray analysis, microhardness measurement, and fracture toughness testing. The growth of the precipitates and the phase transformations were studied as a function of aging in air at 1500 C. Aging curves were constructed for both the as received and the solution annealed and quenched materials; the curves showed hardness peaks at 1397 and 1517 Kg/sq mm respectively. The rectangular plate shaped tetragonal precipitates were found to have a 110 habit plane. A total of twelve different types of tetragonal precipitates were found. Grinding of the Y2O3 PSZ into powder did not cause a significant amount of metastable tetragonal precipitates to transform into the monoclinc phase, thus indicating that transformation toughening is not a significant mechanism for the material.

Valentine, P. G.↗

Directionally solidified ceramic eutectics

The aligned structures which result from the directional solidification (DS) of ceramic eutectics are of interest because of their potential for use in electronic devices and as structural materials. Techniques for growing DS ceramic eutectics are briefly discussed. The principles and controlling parameters of DS eutectic growth are described. The criteria for plane-front growth and the effect of growth rate on interlamellar or interfiber spacing are discussed. Examples of the effect of growth parameters on the alignment of the microstructure are given. Examples of the mechanical properties of directionally solidified oxide-oxide ceramics are also cited.

Ashbrook, R. L.↗

High-resolution Surface Analysis by Microarea Auger Spectroscopy: Computerization and Characterization

A custom scanning Auger electron microscope (SAM) capable of introducing a 3-5 keV electron beam of several nA into a 30 nm diameter sample area was fitted with a sample introduction system and was fully computerized to be used for materials science research. The method of multispectral Auger imaging was devised and implemented. The instrument was applied to various problems in materials science, including the study of the fiber/matrix interface in a SiC reinforced titanium alloy, the study of SiC whiskers in Al alloy 2124 (in cooperation with NASA-Langley), the study of NiCrAl superalloys (in collaboration with NASA-Lewis), the study of zircalloy specimens (in collaboration with Stanford University), and the microstructure of sintered SiC specimens (in collaboration with NASA-Lewis). The report contains a number of manuscripts submitted for publication on these subjects.

Browning, R.↗

Characterization of sintered SiC by using NDE

Capabilities of projection microfocus X-radiography and of ultrasonic velocity and attenuation for characterizing silicon carbide specimens were assessed. Silicon carbide batches covered a range of densities and different microstructural characteristics. Room-temperature, four-point flexural strength tests were conducted. Fractography was used to identify types, sizes, and locations of fracture origins. Fracture toughness values were calculated from fracture strength and flaw characterization data. Detection capabilities of radiography for fracture-causing flaws were evaluated. Applicability of ultrasonics for verifying material strength and toughness was examined. Radiography proved useful in detecting high-density inclusions and isolated voids, but failed in detecting surface and subsurface agglomerates and large grains as fracture origins. Ultrasonic velocity dependency on density was evident. Attenuation dependency on density and mean pore size was clearly demonstrated. Understanding attenuation as a function of toughness was limited by shortcomings in K sub IC determination.

Baaklini, George Y.↗

Time dependent reliability model incorporating continuum damage mechanics for high-temperature ceramics

Presently there are many opportunities for the application of ceramic materials at elevated temperatures. In the near future ceramic materials are expected to supplant high temperature metal alloys in a number of applications. It thus becomes essential to develop a capability to predict the time-dependent response of these materials. The creep rupture phenomenon is discussed, and a time-dependent reliability model is outlined that integrates continuum damage mechanics principles and Weibull analysis. Several features of the model are presented in a qualitative fashion, including predictions of both reliability and hazard rate. In addition, a comparison of the continuum and the microstructural kinetic equations highlights a strong resemblance in the two approaches.

Duffy, Stephen F.↗

Deformation behavior of NiAl-based alloys containing iron, cobalt, and hafnium

The effects of alloying additions on the mechanical properties of the B2 intermetallic NiAl have been investigated in both the melt-spun ribbon and consolidated, bulk form. The study is based on a matrix of NiAl-based alloys with up to 20 at. pct Co and Fe additions and with reduced Al levels in the range of 30-40 at. pct. Characterization of the melt-spun ribbon by optical and scanning electron microscopy indicates a range of microstructures, including single-phase beta, gamma-prime necklace phase surrounding either martensitic or beta grains, and a mixture of equiaxed martensitic and gamma-prime grains. Bend ductility is present in melt-spun and annealed ribbons exhibiting the gamma-prime necklace structure and in a single-phase beta material containing 20 at. pct Fe. The analysis of compressive flow behavior on consolidated, bulk specimens indicates that the single-phase beta alloys exhibit a continuous decrease in yield stress with increasing temperature and profuse microcracking at grain boundaries. In contrast, multiphase (gamma-prime + either martensite or beta) alloys tend to display a peak in flow stress between 600 and 800 K, with little or no signs of microcracking. In general, heat treatments which convert the martensitic grains to beta + gamma-prime result in improved strength at temperatures above 600 K and better resistance to crack initiation.

Pank, D. R.↗

Growth and characterization of CdS crystals

A growth method for the physical vapor transport of compound semiconductors in closed ampoules is described. With the unique techniques applied in the heat treatment of the starting materials and the temperature profiles provided by the three-zone translational furnace, large crystals of CdS have been grown successfully by the method at lower temperatures than previously used. Both unseeded and seeded growth have been investigated. The CdS crystals were examined using optical and scanning electron microscopies (SEM) to study the microstructure and the dislocation etch-pits. The crystals were further characterized by infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) transmission measurements.

Su, Ching-Hua↗

Damage mechanisms in three-dimensional woven reinforced ceramic matrix composites under tensile and flexural loading at room and elevated temperatures

Three-dimensional Nicalon SiC/SiC matrix composites made through a chemical vapor infiltration process were studied under tensile and flexural loading at 23, 1200, and 1550 C in air. In situ damage accumulation monitoring NDE techniques were utilized to identify failure mechanisms in these materials. The effectiveness and durability of a chemical vapor deposition SiC surface coating were also evaluated in severe oxidizing environment. Results show that the failure response was very similar for the 23 and 1200 C specimens, while at 1550 C there were significant changes in both the composite mechanical behavior and the matrix microstructure. Extensive fiber pull-out was observed only in the 1550 C specimen. It is also found that the SiC surface coating can protect the composite up to the critical matrix cracking strength.

Chulya, Abhisak↗

(abstract) Optical Scattering and Surface Microroughness of Ion Beam Deposited Au and Pt Thin Films

Thin films of gold and platinum have been deposited onto superpolished fused silica substrates using thermal evaporation, ion assisted deposition (IAD), and ion assisted sputtering. The influence of ion beam flux, thin film material, and deposition rate on the films microroughness have been investigated. Short range surface microroughness of the films has been examined using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Long range surface microroughness has been characterized using an angle resolved optical scatterometer. Results indicate that ion beam deposited coatings have improved microstructure over thermally evaporated films.

assisted sputtering fused silica ion beam microrou↗

Materials

NASA Langley Research Center has successfully developed an electron beam freeform fabrication (EBF3) process, a rapid metal deposition process that works efficiently with a variety of weldable alloys. The EBF3 process can be used to build a complex, unitized part in a layer-additive fashion, although the more immediate payoff is for use as a manufacturing process for adding details to components fabricated from simplified castings and forgings or plate products. The EBF3 process produces structural metallic parts with strengths comparable to that of wrought product forms and has been demonstrated on aluminum, titanium, and nickel-based alloys to date. The EBF3 process introduces metal wire feedstock into a molten pool that is created and sustained using a focused electron beam in a vacuum environment. Operation in a vacuum ensures a clean process environment and eliminates the need for a consumable shield gas. Advanced metal manufacturing methods such as EBF3 are being explored for fabrication and repair of aerospace structures, offering potential for improvements in cost, weight, and performance to enhance mission success for aircraft, launch vehicles, and spacecraft. Near-term applications of the EBF3 process are most likely to be implemented for cost reduction and lead time reduction through addition of details onto simplified preforms (casting or forging). This is particularly attractive for components with protruding details that would require a significantly large volume of material to be machined away from an oversized forging, offering significant reductions to the buy-to-fly ratio. Future far-term applications promise improved structural efficiency through reduced weight and improved performance by exploiting the layer-additive nature of the EBF3 process to fabricate tailored unitized structures with functionally graded microstructures and compositions.

Glaessgen, Edward H.↗