Development of Metal/Ceramic Nanocomposite Powder and Consolidation to Bulk Nanocomposite Components with Retained Nanostructures

摘要

An instrument innovation has been developed that enables for the minimization of oxidation during Air Plasma Spray (APS). Oxidation is limited due to the creation of a three-part copper shroud that utilizes a custom-fit mounting plate that is affixed to the SG-100 APS plasma gun. Due to the separation of the ambient environment from the plasma flame and the particles traveling through it, this process has been deemed Shrouded Air Plasma Spray or SAPS. Shrouding the plasma flame and the molten particles holds much promise for the minimization of porosity, oxidation, and other debilitating material phenomenon that occurs at the high temperatures and rapid solidification environment that is used for the development of bulk nanostructured components. This shroud design has been experimentally tested and meets all APS spraying parameters.