Abstract: A definitive investigation of the boron-carbon equilibrium system is being made by X-ray diffraction, metallographic, and thermal analytical techniques. Additional baron-carbon alloys have been prepared by sintering and arc-melting compacts prepared from boron and high-purity graphite. Metallographic examinations of these alloys are in agreement with alloys previously preapred from lampblack. X-ray investigation of sintered compacts indicates that the solubility range of boron carbide extends almost to pure boron. Boron of various purities has been annealed for times up to four hours, but no structure other than beta-rhombohedral has been detected. Very high purity boron (10 ppm impurity) has been obtained for the study of allotropy and the equilibrium relationships at very dilute carbon contents.

Abstract: "As part of a program entitled "Improved Zirconium Alloys" a brief summary of a present zirconium research at various organizations has been prepared. Information was obtained by telephone and personnel contact; and these discussions, along with the organization and personnel, are presented."