Mechanical activation of titanium powder ignition and combustion

Abstract

This article discusses the possible intensification of metal powder ignition and combustion processes during their mechanical treatment. The defectivity of the structure and diffusion permeability is examined. Tests were conducted on electrolytic titanium powders of mark TP-6 and TU 48-0561-4/0-80. Powder samples were selected after specific time intervals and their ignition and combustion characteristics were determined. The titanium powder was placed in a 16-mm-diameter capsule from brass mesh which does not obstruct gas supply to the specimen, and was then inserted in a metal module heated to a definite temperature in a muffle furnace. It is shown that treatment of the powder results in significant facilitation of its flammability. The electron exoemission was measured on the primary and treated titanium powders. The data on titanium powder ignition and combustion and the results of studying the exoemission indicate that the intensification observed for combustion and ignition is related to the origin of defects on the powder grain surface during its mechanical treatment.