Preparation and testing of microstructure of the SPS zirconium with the addition of manganese

Abstract The research concerns the optimisation of sintering zirconium by spark plasma sintering (SPS) and modification of microstructures by introducing the manganese component. The problems of preparing mixtures for sintering were investigated. An additive of 2.5 wt% and 5 wt% manganese micropowders and 1 wt% and 2.5 wt% manganese nanopowders were utilized. An increase in the oxygen content in sintered mixtures made of zirconium and manganese along with an increase in their milling time in water was found. 100 rpm was determined as a safe mixing speed. The introduction of manganese nanopowders into zirconium did not significantly improved the homogeneity of the material. Manganese in larger quantities accumulates at the grain boundaries. The material is very difficult to machining, which is indicated by difficulties in sample preparation.