Synthesis/processing of lightweight metals
Using far from equilibrium synthesis, production of novel crystal structures and microstructures is possible, leading to enhanced physical and mechanical properties. A number of far from equilibrium techniques are briefly presented with emphasis on the amount of departure from equilibrium. Developments in systems in the aerospace, automobile and rolling stock (railway) arenas are reviewed and the importance of materials with improved performance emphasized. The ability of three advanced synthesis techniques, rapid solidification (RS), mechanical alloying (MA), and physical vapor deposition (PVD) to develop novel structures are discussed in detail.