| 摘要 |
A method of production of large Ingots of neutron attenuating composites using a vacuum-bellows system allows for large cross-sectional shapes to be extruded and rolled. This method uses a vacuum-bellows technology which allows the manufacturing of large 8-16 inch diameter ingots (50-450 lbs. each). A variety of primary metal matrix materials can be used in this technology. High specific strength and stiffness can be achieved because the technology allows for final densities of 99% and higher. The vacuum-bellows technology allows metals and ceramics to blend and mesh together at compression pressures of 800 tons with elevated temperatures. The controlled compression movement allows for any oxide layer, on the metal, to be broken up and consolidated with the chosen ceramic particulate. One application is to blend boron-rich ceramics and high purity (99.5-99.99%) aluminum particulates together and produce a large ingot using this vacuum-bellows technology. The vacuum-bellows technology allows the ingot to be extruded to large cross-sectional sizes that some applications need (9-12 width). By controlling the amount of boron-rich ceramics, by volume or weight, certain B-10 isotope areal densities can be accomplished. These B-10 isotopes attenuate neutrons in nuclear fuel. Other elements, which have high, cross-sectional Barn values can be used. These are, but not limited to, samarium and gadolinium oxides, nitrides, carbides and silicides.
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