Cryogenic Processing: A Study of Materials at Low Temperatures

Cryogenics is an exciting, important and inexpensive technique that already has led to main discoveries and holds much future assurance. Cryogenic processing is the treatment of the materials at very low temperature around 77 K. This technique has been proven to be efficient in improving the physical and mechanical properties of the materials such as metals, alloys, plastics and composites. It improves the wear, abrasion, erosion and corrosion resistivity, durability and stabilizes the strength characteristics of various materials. Cryogenic refines and stabilizes the crystal lattice structure and distribute carbon particles throughout the material resulting a stronger and hence more durable material. In present paper, we have reviewed the effect of cryogenic treatment on some metals, alloys, plastics and composites.