Abstract

Abstract Shock compression processing is emerging as a novel technique for fabrication of esoteric materials. Not only can metal and ceramic powders be dynamically consolidated, but both equilibrium and non-equilibrium structures can be synthesized under the high pressure regime during the passage of shock waves of sufficient magnitude and duration. The shock waves can be generated by impact from a plate (accelerated by compressed gas or detonation of explosive) or direct contact with explosives. Very hard metallic and ceramic powders, as well as those powders that cannot be processed by conventional powder processing techniques can be easily compacted to solid densities. The bonding mechanisms in shock compaction involve the rapid and intense deposition of shock energy, preferentially at interparticle regions, resulting in extensive plastic deformation. This may lead to interparticle welding due to partial melting or simply solid-state diffusional bonding. Shock compression processing technology will be reviewed with emphasis on the processing aspects. Specific examples of shock compaction of RSP alloys and ceramics will be presented, and feasibility of commercialization of the technique will be discussed.