Abstract: An electrically conducting cermet comprises at least one transition metal element dispersed in a matrix of at least one refractory oxide selected from the group consisting of yttria, alumina, garnet, magnesium aluminum oxide, and combinations; wherein an amount of the at least one transition metal element is less than 15 volume percent of the total volume of the cermet. A device comprises the aforementioned electrically conducting cermet.

Abstract: An apparatus for incorporating an elemental component in gaseous form into a molten metal is described. The apparatus comprises a container for holding the molten metal; means for cooling the container; heating means for maintaining the metal in the molten state; and a canopy which covers the top of the container. The apparatus also includes at least one aperture through which a desired gaseous material can be fed from a gas source. A related method for incorporating an elemental component in gaseous form into a molten metal is also described. The method includes the step of providing the metal in a container apparatus as described above, and feeding the gaseous elemental component from a gas source into the container, while maintaining the metal in the molten state. Articles prepared by such a method are also disclosed, as well as niobium base composites which comprise niobium, silicon, and nitrogen.

Abstract: An electrically conducting cermet comprises at least one transition metal element dispersed in a matrix of at least one refractory oxide selected from the group consisting of yttria, alumina, garnet, magnesium aluminum oxide, and combinations; wherein an amount of the at least one transition metal element is less than 15 volume percent of the total volume of the cermet. A device comprises the aforementioned electrically conducting cermet.