Spherical powders: Control over the size and morphology of powders for additive manufacturing and enriched stable isotope nuclear targets

Metal powders are a fundamental starting point for fabricating many types of nuclear targets. Elemental powder properties can differ drastically between batches, even when using the same method. Therefore, variation in morphology and size metal cause variable quality produce inconsistent results with what otherwise proven target manufacturing techniques. Additive has additional requirements higher more uniform feedstock. The production spheroidized uniform, reproducible narrow distribution represents unexplored opportunities experiments. These include experimenting solid metals that now flow like liquids, new options handling dispensing, fabrication methods additive manufacturing. Stable Isotope Materials Chemistry Group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory obtained an AMAZEMET rePowder ultrasonic atomization tool creating limited batches fully dense, free flowing, spherical extremely rare materials. Early presented materials were produced. team explores anticipated limits this instrument (e.g., enriched stable isotopes) highlights research into techniques provide benefitting international community.