Physical properties of manganese-bismuth specimens produced in microgravity

Microgravity experiments performed on alloys with a miscibility gap, have had to be complemented with further experiments with the Mn--Bi system as a model for phase separation in systems with a peritectic reaction. The treatment concerns the definition of the steps to be carried out during intended space experiments, postflight assessment of results obtained from the TEXUS mission, and actual observations made. Microphotographs are shown of TEXUS specimen, specimen prepared under terrestrial conditions and extruded specimen during flight. A graph is given of the electrical resistivity and one on demagnetization of extruded flight specimen. Graphs, Photomicrographs. 17 ref.--T.Z.