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Explosive bonding is a technique used to join different metals by utilizing the force of an explosion. This method is particularly valuable for bonding metals that are typically incompatible, such as aluminum and steel, or titanium and steel.1

The process involves placing two metal slabs parallel to each other, with a small gap between them. An explosive material is then placed on the top slab. When detonated, the explosion forces the slabs together with immense pressure, creating a weld at the interface. This rapid plastic deformation results in a strong bond, often characterized by a wave-like appearance at the joint. This technique can also be used to create composite metals, like those used in coinage, by bonding large slabs that are later rolled to the desired thickness.12

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