High energy electron beam materials processing

High energy (≥1 MeV), pulsed electron beams are capable of rapid, in-depth energy deposition in materials. This feature should yield some significant advantages in the processing of materials. This report describes preliminary experiments using this technology for the joining via brazing of carbon-carbon and metal-matrix composites, and the bonding and sintering of ceramics. The experiments described are being conducted utilizing a high energy (1.5 - 3.0 MeV), high current (≤ 3 kA), long pulse (0.2 - 2.0 μs) electron beam produced by the Naval Surface Warfare Center's Long Pulse Accelerator. Initial results and extensive numerical modeling indicate the advantages of using a beam delivering a train of much shorter pulses over a longer time. The deposition of energy over much longer times avoids large pressures which can cause material damage. Also, for brazing applications, some heating of the base materials by the braze during beam exposure is desirable