Ion Beam Preparation--an Excellent Instrument for the Characterization of the Byproducts of the Melt Powder Metallurgical Aluminum Foam Process

摘要

The goal of the investigations was to develop the basic knowledge of the micro- structural changes in the technological process of the production of metal foam by the melt powder metallurgical process. An exact characterization of the grain structure was necessary for all technological stages. The usual metallographic preparations were not possible due to the highly volatile components of the expanding agent as well as the lightly pressed powders having contrasting properties. This article explores the possibilities of ion beam preparation in which the grain structure and, in particular, the propellant can be represented exactly in all technological stages (powder mixture, compact, extrusion, metal foam).