Effects of niobium on the mechanical and oxidation properties of additively manufactured tungsten

Abstract Although additive manufacturing presents a novel and customizable approach to fabricating tungsten (W) alloys, the layer-by-layer production technique presents a unique set of processing challenges which are further exacerbated by the metal’s refractory properties. In this study, additions of niobium (Nb) were found to improve the mechanical properties and oxidation resistance of additively manufactured W. Microstructural investigation revealed the effect of Nb on the cracking, grain size, and texture in the as-built material. Mechanical compression testing showed significant improvement in ductility with increasing Nb content. The low concentrations of Nb used did not induce large changes in the yield strength of the material. The work shows that Nb may be a useful alloying element for improving additive manufacturing of W.