Abstract: The present invention provides iron-based metallurgical powder compositions and a method of making and using the same. The metallurgical powder compositions of the present invention contain certain amounts of an iron-alloy powder having iron and at least one alloying additive; substantially pure iron powder; and a carbon powder, such as graphite. The metallurgical powder compositions are prepared by admixing the iron-alloy powder with the iron powder and carbon powder. The metallurgical powder compositions thus produce and when formed into metal parts have, for example, improved machinability properties.

Abstract: A method for heating metal powder, e.g., iron powder, comprises irradiating the powder with microwaves. The powder may be coated with various materials to enhance the heating effects of the microwave. For example, the powder may be coated with a non-emissive material, such as a ceramic material. The powder may also be coated with a dipole material, such as water or plastic, or a dielectric material.

Abstract: The specification discloses a solar cell having a graded band gap and a plurality of alternately active and inactive p-n junctions. The cell has a gradually changing monocrystalline structure of IIIA-VA compounds. The graded band gaps of the cell are the result of the gradually changing chemical composition of the cell's monocrystalline structure. The junctions are produced by conventional doping techniques.