The effect of interstitial elements on the mechanical properties of tantalum at low temperature

An investigation of the low temperature tensile properties of tantalum and of tantalum containing added interstitials was carried out. Added nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen were found to increase the level of the yield point stress relative to that of the starting material. The elongation of material with added nitrogen and oxygen exhibited less elongation at room temperature than did the pure material, but at —196°C it showed more elongation. Hydrogen embrittlement was observed in the material with added hydrogen. It was demonstrated that the tensile properties of tantalum were sensitive to strain rate. A transition from a ductile-to-less ductile type of behaviour was found on decreasing the temperature. The transition temperature also was found to be strain rate sensitive.Applied Science, Faculty ofMaterials Engineering, Department ofGraduat