Abstract: This invention identifies methods and articles designed to circumvent metallurgical problems associated with hermetically closing an all cast iron nuclear waste package by welding. It involves welding nickel-carbon alloy inserts which are bonded to the mating plug and main body components of the package. The welding inserts might be bonded in place during casting of the package components. When the waste package closure weld is made, the most severe thermal effects of the process are restricted to the nickel-carbon insert material which is far better able to accommodate them than is cast iron. Use of nickel-carbon weld inserts should eliminate any need for pre-weld and post-weld heat treatments which are a problem to apply to nuclear waste packages.

Abstract: A mirror is made by applying a coating to a highly reflective surface of a substrate. The coating is prepared from a composition of an alkoxide having the general formula M(OR).sub.n, where M is 0 to 100% titanium, 0 to 25% silicon, 0 to 100% tantalum, or 0 to 15% of a metal ion which forms an alkoxide, R is alkyl from C.sub.1 to C.sub.6 and n is the valence of M, about 1.7 to about 8 moles of water per mole of alkoxide, sufficient alcohol to give a solids content of about 0.5 to about 15%, and a sufficient amount of a suitable acid to prevent cloudiness. The coated substrate is fired at about 200.degree. to about 600.degree. C. to form an oxide coating which is substantially oxygen impervious. Additional layers of the coating may be applied and fired until the oxide coating is about 200 to about 5000A thick, avoiding quarter-wave thicknesses.