Fabrication of Metal Matrix Composite Materials

Abstract

The analysis of the limiting factors associated with ultimate strength of metal matrix composite materials provides a basis for applying boundary conditions to potential fabrication techniques. The boundary conditions are formulated through an understanding of fiber degradation, fiber-matrix interface and reactivity and processing effects (residual stress). The boron-aluminum system is considered for definition of boundary conditions. These condi tions are compared with test data generated from composites fabri cated by both liquid and solid state techniques. Considerations for future research in the area of metal matrix composite fabrication techniques are proposed.