Abstract: A method of producing a refractory metal powder by (A) combining (i) an oxide particle component and (ii) a reducing agent; (B) forming a substantially uniform mixture of (i) and (ii); (C) continuously feeding the mixture into a furnace; (D) igniting the mixture at a reaction zone and starting a reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to form a high temperature flash; (E) starting a reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to form a high temperature self-sustaining flash; and (F) producing a free-flowing reduced oxide powder.

Abstract: An ingot-derived unagglomerated (or preagglomerated) tantalum powder composition includes a platelet tantalum powder having an average FSSS of less than two micrometers, preferably in the range of 0.6 to 1.1 micrometers, a Scott density not greater than about 30 g/in.sup.3, and a BET surface area of at least 0.7 m.sup.2 /g. In one embodiment of the invention, such powder is agglomerated and milled to form a tantalum powder product having a particle size of about 2 to 3 micrometers, a BET surface area of about 0.43 m.sup.2 /g, a Scott density in the range of 18 to 27 g/in.sup.3.

Abstract: Tantalum powders for electrolytic capacitors having improved electrical capacity and low direct current leakage characteristics are produced by the introduction of combinations of carbon, nitrogen and sulfur-containing materials.