FORMATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF ELECTRO-EXPLOSIVE RESEARCH TOPICS AT THE DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS OF SibSIU

The features of pulsed methods of hardening and protecting the surface of metals and alloys based on the use of the physical phenomenon of an electrical explosion of conductors are considered. Two main areas of research in this area are identified: electro-explosive alloying and electro-explosive spraying. Electro-explosive alloying is a process in which, during an electric explosion of conductors, a pulsed heterogeneous plasma jet with high pressure and temperature is formed, its interaction with the reinforced surface of a metal or alloy leads to the formation of a shock-compressed layer. This leads to melting of the surface and saturation of its components with jet, promotes the formation of solid solutions, the formation of new structural and phase states and microstructural changes. For example, during electroexplosion of titanium, due to the formation of new phases, the hardness and heat resistance of the surface increase. Electro-explosive spraying is a process in which finely dispersed particles of a substance introduced into the explosion area during the formation of a jet are accelerated to high speeds and applied to the surface of the workpiece, forming coatings with a metallurgical bond on it. This method makes it possible to create protective coatings that enhance, in particular, the corrosion resistance and wear resistance of parts. For example, spraying nickel onto steel parts using an electric explosion can significantly increase their service life in aggressive environments. The information about the main results obtained, presented in the form of defended candidate's and doctoral dissertations, is given. These works have not only expanded the understanding of the processes occurring during electrical explosive treatments, but have also opened up new perspectives for the application of these technologies in various fields of industry. In general, electro-explosive methods of hardening and protecting metals and alloys remain an urgent research topic, contributing to the improvement of modern materials and technologies.