Thermal studies for preparation of Nb10Hf1Ti Alloy

The aim of this work is to evaluate the feasibility of preparation of Nb10Hf1Ti alloy by magnesiothermic reduction of its oxides. DTA studies were conducted to identify the reduction temperature for co reduction of the mixed oxides of Nb₂O₅, HfO₂, and TiO₂ by magnesium under reducing atmosphere. Based on DTA analysis, experiments were carried out to prepare Nb10Hf1Ti alloy by magnesiothermic reduction of their oxides at 750 °C. The reduced product was analyzed for its phases by X-ray diffraction. The excess Mg was leached out, the alloy mixture was vacuum dried, pelletized, sintered, and electron beam melted to get a consolidated alloy of the required composition. The alloy was characterized using different techniques such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and chemical analysis. Microstructural observations revealed the formation of coarse grain structure in the consolidated alloy. The alloy product was also evaluated for its micro hardness.