Abstract: A method is provided for producing dispersion-strengthened mechanically alloyed Al-Li alloys with improved mechanical properties. The method comprises subjecting mechanically alloyed, degassed, consolidated Al-Li powders consisting essentially of from above 1.5% up to about 3.5% lithium from about 0.4% up to about 1.5% oxygen, from about 0.2% up to about 1.2% carbon and the balance essentially aluminum, to a heat treatment which will produce an aging response in the alloy.

Abstract: A process for producing an agglomerated metallurgical composition involving contacting a flowable mass of metal powder, e.g. aluminum powder having a melting point above about 500.degree. C. with a lesser mass of alkali metal, e.g. lithium at a temperature between the melting point of the alkai metal and the melting point of the metal of the powder. The contact is made under a protective atmosphere, e.g. argon or helium and is effected by kneading the metal powder and the molten metal for sufficient time to form agglomerates of substantially uniform composition.

Abstract: Master alloys of lithium or other alkali metal with a second metal such as alumium are made by exposing mechanically aloyed powder of the second metal to molten alkali metal. The exposure can be in an inert liquid medium such as a high boiling point hydrocarbon or in a dry, inert gas medium. In order that contact between the lithium and the second metal be efficient, significant, shear inducing agitation is required when the process is carried out in a liquid medium and kneading action, either manual or mechanical is required when the process is carried out dry in an inert gas medium.