Bulk Nanostructured Tungsten for Extreme Environments

Introduction

Tungsten possesses the highest melting point amongst metals and exhibits superior characteristics when sustaining extreme environments. Nevertheless, tungsten also has a severe limitation: it is intrinsically brittle and prone to cleavage failure. In our ERC Consolidator Grant TOUGHIT, we are developing strategies to overcome this brittleness while concurrently enhancing the material strength. This is accomplished by refining tungsten to a nanocrystalline state via extreme deformation and strengthening the weak interfaces through segregation-driven grain boundary engineering.

Project Overview

In the current Proof of Concept project BulkNanoWe2, we aim to transition this knowledge to industrial application. Our objective is to devise efficient manufacturing procedures to create near-net-shaped bulk parts.

Manufacturing Process

We employ spark plasma sintering, using electric heating and applied pressure, to facilitate swift sintering at lower temperatures. The pivotal role of a nanostructured material to ensure the desired properties is realized by commencing with nanopowders. These also aid synthesis by increasing sintering kinetics.

Surface Modification

Further, the nanopowders will undergo surface modification to:

• Retard grain growth
• Concurrently enhance mechanical properties

Goals and Outcomes

Thereby, we chart a course toward creating near-net-shaped components featuring distinctly tailored nanoscale microstructure and modified interfaces. This innovative approach will provide a synergistic combination of desired attributes, including:

1. A remarkable strength surpassing conventional bulk tungsten by >100%
2. Fracture toughness that will at least double for a resource-efficient yet secure design paradigm

Conclusion

Attaining these highly desirable properties in an adapted industrial framework, we also contribute to tungsten sourcing challenges. Finally, we realize an environmentally conscientious and economically appealing exceptional material tailored to endure extreme environments.