Some aspects of the changes of the structure, composition and properties of metal powders by shock waves and laser radiation

Studied is the possibility of using shock waves (SW) and laser radiation for processing of metallic powders to obtain monolithic reinforced materials. Powders of pure metals with different melting points and crystalline structures (Al, Ni, Mg, Mo, W, iron carboxide, etc) as well as powders from the SmCo5 intermetallic compound were subjected to SW action and radiated with laser light pulses. Resultant changes obtained in the structure, composition and properties of the materials were studied by metallography, X-ray spectrum microanalysis and microhardness tests. The experiments showed that both types of pulse action yield monolithic materials from the powders. In the case of SW's, they were cylindrical moulds with sizes corresponding to those of the interior part of the ampoules used