The results of a state-of-the-art survey covering niobium and 18 of its most promising alloys are presented. All data are given in tabular and graphical form covering some of the more important physical, mechanical, and metallurgical properties for each material. References are given at the conclusion of each material section.

An experimental investigation was made to evaluate two vanadium-base sheet alloys for aerospace applications in the 1,800 F to 2,400 F (1,260 K to l,590 K) temperature range. The investigation consisted of mechanical property tests both at room and elevated temperatures and oxidation tests on coated and uncoated material. Three silicide diffusion coatings were evaluated by continuous and cyclic oxidation testing to determine their protective qualities. An X-ray study, a metallographic examination, and hardness measurements were made to identify and locate the elements and compounds present in the coating and substrate before and after elevated-temperature exposure. Fabrication and joining of the alloys are discussed. A description of the equipment and procedures utilized in performing the evaluation tests is included.

The growth and development witnessed today in modern science, engineering, and technology owes a heavy debt to the rare, refractory, and reactive metals group, of which niobium is a member. Extractive Metallurgy of Niobium presents a vivid account of the metal through its comprehensive discussions of properties and applications, resources and resource processing, chemical processing and compound preparation, metal extraction, and refining and consolidation. Typical flow sheets adopted in some leading niobium-producing countries for the beneficiation of various niobium sources are presented, and various chemical processes for producing pure forms of niobium intermediates such as chloride, fluoride, and oxide are discussed. The book also explains how to liberate the metal from its intermediates and describes the physico-chemical principles involved. It is an excellent reference for chemical metallurgists, hydrometallurgists, extraction and process metallurgists, and minerals processors. It is also valuable to a wide variety of scientists, engineers, technologists, and students interested in the topic.