Structure and properties of niobium powder produced by hydrogen treatment from niobium swarf

Results are presented from an investigation into the reaction of hydrogen with niobium and of the structure and properties of powder produced from swarf using a hydridation-disintegration-dehydridation method. The kinetics of hydrogen gas absorption by niobium of various degrees of compactness were assessed along with hydrogen evolution from niobium hydrides. The structures and properties were evaluated by electron microprobe analysis, optical and electron microscopy, weight measurement, hardness testing, and x-ray diffraction. Particle sizes were determined by sieve analysis. Uses for the resulting powders in machines and as superconductors are addressed.