Abstract: Methods and systems for the additive manufacturing of metal parts. Some embodiments include a method that includes depositing a plurality of foil layers, the plurality of foil layers comprising at least one void space and forming a workpiece having an object region and a support region, the support region connected to the object region and the void space being fluidically isolated from the exterior of the workpiece; and applying pressure to the workpiece to collapse the at least one void space.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the manufacture of laminated metal parts having external dimensions exceeding 0.5 m in length, 0.5 m in width, and 0.1 m in height. Some embodiments include methods to apply force evenly to a workpiece via multiple rams and feature stiffened platens comprised of multiple alloys. Some embodiments include modifications to the workpiece itself, including designs for a temporary vacuum or controlled gas chamber constructed around the workpiece. Some embodiments include modifications to the workpiece and the support structures surrounding the part which direct force during bonding to the part. Control systems may be employed to coordinate the operation of the cylinders with heating, cooling, and pumping operations. Finally, some embodiments include alternative heating systems such as induction or joule heating.

Abstract: Producing an ordered graphitic carbon includes contacting a material including disordered elemental carbon and a metal with chlorine gas, thereby yielding a gaseous product comprising a chloride of the metal and a solid product comprising the ordered graphitic carbon.

Abstract: A method of maintaining part geometry fidelity during infiltration of a metallic preform. The preform and an infiltration barrier are formed, either independently or together during an additive manufacturing process. The infiltration barrier prevents infiltrant from bleeding out from the preform where it is present, thus protecting fine geometries that would otherwise be filled with infiltrant.