Development of a Dynamic Gas Condensation Technique for Commercial Production of Nanometer Metal Powders.
Abstract
The feasibility of utilizing dynamic gas condensation technology to commercially produce nanometer scale metal powders is determined in this project. The elements of the determination are: to design and construct a laboratory scale apparatus to produce samples of three different nanometer scale metal powders, to measure purity, particle size and particle size distribution of the powder samples, and to design a plan for construction of a prototype apparatus that can produce 1-2 kilograms of nanometer scale powder per day. We describe the design and operation of a laboratory scale apparatus based on a medium power radio frequency induction source. Transmission electron microscopy and high energy ion scattering measurements are presented for aluminum, magnesium and copper powders that were produced. Typical particle sizes are in the range 10-70 nanometers. Design recommendations and a plan for construction of a larger scale apparatus is given. We conclude that the use of dynamic gas condensation to fabricate nanometer scale metal powder is commercially feasible.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA326277
Entities
People
- Joe A. Martin