Metalworking Techniques Unlock a Unique Alloy

Half a century ago, a scientist at the Naval Ordnance Laboratory discovered that an alloy containing 60 percent nickel and 40 percent titanium could provide exceptional performance for rocket nose cones undergoing the rigors of atmospheric reentry. While the Navy experimented with this new material for a few years—in addition to rockets, it was also tested in mine detectors—it proved too difficult to work with to be of real practical value.