Abstract: A mixed oxide ceramic product is made directly from a metal alloy of titanium, zirconium and/or hafnium and niobium, tantalum or hafnium, where the normally combustible alloy of titanium and zirconium or hafnium is passivated by the addition of more than about 7 atomic percent of niobium and/or tantalum and or vanadium which alloy can then be heated in air at atmospheric pressure to a temperature of from about 800 degrees C. to about 1500 degrees C. to produce an adherent monolithic ceramic containing product.

Abstract: Controllable oxidation of certain titanium zirconium alloys is achieved by utilizing minor proportions of niobium, tantalum or vanadium or mixtures thereof and articles formed therefrom can be partially oxidized to form a deep, hard monolithic oxide containing surface layer and further or completely oxidized to form a cermet or ceramic body respectively, which can be heated further to improve the ceramic bodies properties.

Abstract: A laminating press for wood products includes at least one pair of heated drums rotating on parallel axes and an endless belt running around the drums, and a device for pressing a stack of materials to be laminated against the belt between the drums, wherein the belt consists essentially of a zirconium or titanium alloy having a thermal diffusivity of at least 0.08 cm.sup.2 /sec and Young's modulus below 20 million psi. Unplated, the belt material provides a non-stick surface with respect to melamine, and because it is unplated, the belt can be resurfaced when worn. Alternatively, the above materials are used in constructing plates for a platen-type laminating press.