The Charpy Impact Energy of Boron-Aluminum

Abstract

The notched Charpy impact energy of boron-aluminum composites has been determined as a function of specimen orientation, fiber type, matrix composition and fabrication conditions. Both boron fiber and silicon carbide coated boron fiber have been used with 1100, 6061, 2024, 5052 and 5056 aluminum alloys. It has been demonstrated that impact energy values in excess of 30 joules (22 ft-lbs) can be achieved and that high levels of energy are maintained without loss in composite axial or transverse strength.