Zirconium as a Structural Material for Naval Systems

• Main Author: Ferrando, W A
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Subjects: CERAMIC MATERIALS; COMPOSITE MATERIALS; CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS; CORROSION RESISTANCE; FABRICATION; FATIGUE(MECHANICS); FIBER REINFORCEMENT; HIGH DENSITY; HIGH STRENGTH; INDUSTRIES; Marine Engineering; METHODOLOGY; MILITARY REQUIREMENTS; NAVAL ARCHITECTURE; PE62761N; PHYSICAL PROPERTIES; Properties of Metals and Alloys; RESISTANCE; STRUCTURES; TOUGHNESS; WU4R32BH; ZIRCONIUM; ZIRCONIUM ALLOYS; ZIRCONIUM OXIDES

The important basic physical properties and steps in the manufacture of elemental zirconium and several of its important alloys are discussed. Once considered prohibitively expensive for structural uses, its current cost is becoming competitive with other special alloys for various industrial applications. Its actual life cycle cost in many cases has been considerably lower than that experienced with alternative materials. Some of the physical properties of zirconium which make it particularly attractive for naval use include: high strength (particularly when alloyed), outstanding resistance to all forms of corrosion in seawater (and most other) environments, superior fatigue resistance, and good metallurgical workability. Its oxide compound zirconia has recently become a base material for a new generation of tough ceramics of potential structural use. These ceramics are also candidates for fiber reinforcement. Several modern ceramic fabrication techniques are discussed. Although its moderately high density probably will preclude widespread aerospace usage, zirconium and zirconium-based materials could find extensive application in naval surface systems. Finally, there is a ready availability of the raw ore from friendly nations and a very abundant domestic supply, should other sources fail. This assurance certainly increases the attractiveness of these materials for future Navy needs.