THE TRANSFORMATION KINETICS OF URANIUM-ZIRCONIUM ALLOYS CONTAINING 50 AND 60 WT PCT URANIUM
The isothermal transformation kinetics of the hightemperature gamma phase in 50 and 60 wt.% U--Zr alloys 580 deg C. Dilatometric, hardness, metallographic, and x-ray diffraction data have been obtained on samples quenched from the gamma-solution temperature directiy to the isothermal-transformation temperature as well as on samples quenched first to room temperature and then reheated. Above 500 deg C, the transformation involves the formation and growth of an ordered phase, epsilon, and the precipitation of a small amount of alpha uranium. The gamma-to-epsilon reaction is very rapid, starting in a few seconds at 500 deg C. At lower temperatures the transformation also starts rapidly but progresses much more slowly. The mechanism of transformation at the lower temperatures is not clear, but the various data suggest a process similar to that occurring at higher temperatures. (auth)
- Research Organization:
- Westinghouse Electric Corp. Bettis Plant, Pittsburgh
- DOE Contract Number:
- AT(11-1)-GEN-14
- NSA Number:
- NSA-12-002014
- OSTI ID:
- 4347372
- Report Number(s):
- WAPD-T-417
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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