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A nondestructive method to determine solute content of carbon in polycrystalline uranium by ultrasonic techniques is currently being developed. The problem is approached by considering first theories developed in the field of physical acoustics applicable to variation in attenuation and elasticity with respect to interstitial and second-phase contents. Attention is given to the physical metallurgy of uranium, specifically phase stability and the effects of carbon concentration on physical properties. Experimental verification of theory is provided using Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy (RUS) and pulse-echo time of flight measurements, the former yielding elastic moduli and quality factors and the latter supplying attenuation and velocity information.

The potential for using peanut (Arachis hypogaea) husks as an alternative fiber for particleboard production was examined at five different levels of melamine-urea-formaldehyde resin (MUF). The resulting panels were evaluated for moisture absorption, thickness swell, flexural properties (modulus of rupture [MOR] and modulus of elasticity [MOE]) and internal bond (IB) strength. MOR, MOE and IB values of panels containing ≥6 percent resin met or exceeded American National Standards Institute standards for multiple grades of particleboard although they were weaker than previous reports of commercially produced wood particleboards. Moisture uptake and thickness swell also improved markedly at resin levels >6 percent. The results suggest that peanut husks are an attractive alternative fiber source in combination with the MUF resin system.

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