Emerging trends in processing of non-ferrous metals: Challenges in nuclear industry

Abstract

The gamut of processing technologies for non-ferrous metals and materials extends beyond the conventional methods into a wider spectrum of emerging technologies like the near-net shaping, nano-technology, and above all, facilitation of shaping through computational metallurgy for predicting process parameters. These advanced processing methods are essential to meet material challenges in complex engineering problems of nuclear industry, which is illustrated in the paper with few examples. IGCAR has developed a cost effective "advanced" method of synthesis of thorium dioxide fuel pellets, using nano-technology. A pulsed plasma nitriding process for the hardfacing of grid plate sleeves of fast reactors with Cr2N and mixed oxide coating for titanium anodes for the reprocessing application have been demonstrated. The use of modeling methods to predict and overcome problems during joining of metals is demonstrated in TiTaNb weldments and diffusion barrier coatings of Inconel. These examples explain the indispensability of emerging processing technologies of non-ferrous metals in nuclear industry.