Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Hybrid metal matrix composites'

The appeal of hybrid composites is the ability to create materials with properties which normally do not coexist such as high specific strength, stiffness, and toughness. One possible application for hybrid composites is as backplate materials in layered armor. Fiber reinforced composites have been used as backplate materials due to their potential to absorb more energy than monolithic materials at similar to lower weights through microfragmentation of the fiber, matrix, and fiber-matrix interface. Composite backplates are traditionally constructed from graphite or glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites. However, continuous alumina fiber-reinforced aluminum metal matrix composites (MMCs) have superior specific transverse and specific shear properties than epoxy composites. Unlike the epoxy composites, MMCs have the ability to absorb additional energy through plastic deformation of the metal matrix. Although, these enhanced properties may make continuous alumina reinforced MMCs advantageous for use as backplate materials, they still exhibit a low failure strain and therefore have low toughness. One possible solution to improve their energy absorption capabilities while maintaining the high specific stiffness and strength properties of continuous reinforced MMCs is through hybridization. To increase the strain to failure and energy absorption capability of a continuous alumina reinforced Nextel" MMC, it is laminated with a high failure strain Saffil® discontinuous alumina fiber layer. Uniaxial tensile testing of hybrid composites with varying Nextel" to Saffil® reinforcement ratios resulted in composites with non-catastrophic tensile failures and an increased strain to failure than the single reinforcement Nextel" MMC. The tensile behavior of six hybrid continuous and discontinuous alumina fiber reinforced MMCs are reported, as well as a description of the mechanics behind their unique behavior. Additionally, a study on the effects of fiber damage induced during processing is performed to obtain accurate as-processed fiber properties and improve single reinforced laminate strength predictions. A stochastic damage evolution model is used to predict failure of the continuous Nextel" fabric composite which is then applied to a finite element model to predict the progressive failure of two of the hybrid laminates.
Ph. D.

Vielschichtige Eigenschaftsprofile benötigen zunehmend moderne Verbundwerkstoffe und Werkstoffverbunde einschließlich der raschen Entfaltung neuer Fertigungstechnologien, da der monolithische Werkstoff bzw. ein einziger Werkstoff den heutigen komplexen Anforderungen nicht mehr genügen kann. Zukünftige Werkstoffsysteme haben wirtschaftlich eine Schlüsselposition und sind auf den Wachstumsmärkten von grundlegender Bedeutung. Gefragt sind maßgeschneiderte Leichtbauwerkstoffe (tailor-made composites) mit einem adaptierten Design. Dazu müssen Konzepte entwickelt werden, um die Kombination der Komponenten optimal zu gestalten. Das erfordert werkstoffspezifisches Wissen und Korrelationsvermögen sowie die Gestaltung komplexer Technologien, auch unter dem Aspekt der kontinuierlichen Massen- und Großserienfertigung (in-line, in-situ) und damit der Kostenreduzierung bislang teurer Verbundwerkstoffe und Werkstoffverbunde. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird in vergleichbarer und vergleichender Art und Weise sowie abstrahierter Form ein Bogen über das Gesamtgebiet der Verbundwerkstoffe und Werkstoffverbunde gespannt. Eine zusammenfassende Publikation über dieses noch sehr junge, aber bereits breit aufgestellte Wissenschaftsgebiet fehlt bislang. Das ist der Separierung der einzelnen, fest aufgeteilten Gruppierungen der Verbundwerkstoffe geschuldet. Querverbindungen werden selten hergestellt. Dieses Defizit in einem gewissen Maße auszugleichen, ist Ziel der Arbeit. Besondere Berücksichtigung finden Begriffsbestimmungen und Klassifikationen, Herstellungsverfahren und Eigenschaften der Werkstoffe. Es werden klare Strukturierungen und Übersichten herausgearbeitet. Zuordnungen von etablierten und neuen Technologien sollen zur Begriffsstabilität der Terminologien „Mischbauweise“ und „Hybrider Verbund“ beitragen. Zudem wird die Problematik „Recycling und Recyclingtechnologien“ diskutiert. Zusammenfassend werden Handlungsfelder zukünftiger Forschungs- und Entwicklungsprojekte spezifiziert. Aus dem Blickwinkel der verschiedenen Herstellungsrouten insbesondere für Halbzeuge und Bauteile und der dabei gewonnenen Erkenntnisse werden verallgemeinerte Konzepte für tailor-made Verbundwerkstoffe und Werkstoffverbunde vorgeschlagen („Stellschraubenschema“). Diese allgemeinen Werkstoffkonzepte werden auf eigene aktuelle Forschungsprojekte der Schwerpunktthemen Metallmatrix- und Polymermatrix-Verbundwerkstoffe sowie der hybriden Werkstoffverbunde appliziert. Forschungsfelder für zukünftige Projekte werden abgeleitet. Besonderes Augenmerk gilt den hybriden Verbunden als tragende Säule zukünftiger Entwicklungen im Leichtbau. Hier spielen in-line- und in-situ-Prozesse eine entscheidende Rolle für eine großseriennahe, kosteneffiziente und ressourcenschonende Produktion
Complex property profiles require increasingly advanced composite materials and material compounds, including the rapid deployment of new production technologies, because the monolithic material or a single material can no longer satisfy today's complex requirements. Future material systems are fundamentally important to growth markets, in which they have an economically key position. Tailor-made lightweight materials (tailor-made composites) with an adapted design are needed. These concepts have to be developed to design the optimum combination of components. This requires material-specific knowledge and the ability to make correlations, as well as the design of complex technologies. Continuous large-scale and mass production (in-line, in-situ), thus reducing the costs of previously expensive composite materials and material compounds, is also necessary. The present work spans the entire field of composite materials and material compounds in a comparable and comparative manner and abstract form. A summarizing publication on this still very new, but already broad-based scientific field is not yet available. The separation of the individual, firmly divided groups of the composite materials is the reason for this. Cross-connections are rarely made. The objective of this work is to compensate to some extent for this deficiency. Special consideration is given to definitions and classifications, manufacturing processes and the properties of the materials. Clear structures and overviews are presented. Mapping established and new technologies will contribute to the stability of the terms "mixed material compounds" and "hybrid material compounds". In addition, the problem of recycling and recycling technologies is discussed. In summary, areas for future research and development projects will be specified. Generalized concepts for tailor-made composite materials and material compounds are proposed ("adjusting screw scheme") with an eye toward various production routes, especially for semi-finished products and components, and the associated findings. These general material concepts are applied to own current research projects pertaining to metal-matrix and polymer-matrix composites and hybrid material compounds. Research fields for future projects are extrapolated. Particular attention is paid to hybrid material compounds as the mainstay of future developments in lightweight construction. In-line and in-situ processes play a key role for large-scale, cost- and resource-efficient production

Vielschichtige Eigenschaftsprofile benötigen zunehmend moderne Verbundwerkstoffe und Werkstoffverbunde einschließlich der raschen Entfaltung neuer Fertigungstechnologien, da der monolithische Werkstoff bzw. ein einziger Werkstoff den heutigen komplexen Anforderungen nicht mehr genügen kann. Zukünftige Werkstoffsysteme haben wirtschaftlich eine Schlüsselposition und sind auf den Wachstumsmärkten von grundlegender Bedeutung. Gefragt sind maßgeschneiderte Leichtbauwerkstoffe (tailor-made composites) mit einem adaptierten Design. Dazu müssen Konzepte entwickelt werden, um die Kombination der Komponenten optimal zu gestalten. Das erfordert werkstoffspezifisches Wissen und Korrelationsvermögen sowie die Gestaltung komplexer Technologien, auch unter dem Aspekt der kontinuierlichen Massen- und Großserienfertigung (in-line, in-situ) und damit der Kostenreduzierung bislang teurer Verbundwerkstoffe und Werkstoffverbunde. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird in vergleichbarer und vergleichender Art und Weise sowie abstrahierter Form ein Bogen über das Gesamtgebiet der Verbundwerkstoffe und Werkstoffverbunde gespannt. Eine zusammenfassende Publikation über dieses noch sehr junge, aber bereits breit aufgestellte Wissenschaftsgebiet fehlt bislang. Das ist der Separierung der einzelnen, fest aufgeteilten Gruppierungen der Verbundwerkstoffe geschuldet. Querverbindungen werden selten hergestellt. Dieses Defizit in einem gewissen Maße auszugleichen, ist Ziel der Arbeit. Besondere Berücksichtigung finden Begriffsbestimmungen und Klassifikationen, Herstellungsverfahren und Eigenschaften der Werkstoffe. Es werden klare Strukturierungen und Übersichten herausgearbeitet. Zuordnungen von etablierten und neuen Technologien sollen zur Begriffsstabilität der Terminologien „Mischbauweise“ und „Hybrider Verbund“ beitragen. Zudem wird die Problematik „Recycling und Recyclingtechnologien“ diskutiert. Zusammenfassend werden Handlungsfelder zukünftiger Forschungs- und Entwicklungsprojekte spezifiziert. Aus dem Blickwinkel der verschiedenen Herstellungsrouten insbesondere für Halbzeuge und Bauteile und der dabei gewonnenen Erkenntnisse werden verallgemeinerte Konzepte für tailor-made Verbundwerkstoffe und Werkstoffverbunde vorgeschlagen („Stellschraubenschema“). Diese allgemeinen Werkstoffkonzepte werden auf eigene aktuelle Forschungsprojekte der Schwerpunktthemen Metallmatrix- und Polymermatrix-Verbundwerkstoffe sowie der hybriden Werkstoffverbunde appliziert. Forschungsfelder für zukünftige Projekte werden abgeleitet. Besonderes Augenmerk gilt den hybriden Verbunden als tragende Säule zukünftiger Entwicklungen im Leichtbau. Hier spielen in-line- und in-situ-Prozesse eine entscheidende Rolle für eine großseriennahe, kosteneffiziente und ressourcenschonende Produktion.
Complex property profiles require increasingly advanced composite materials and material compounds, including the rapid deployment of new production technologies, because the monolithic material or a single material can no longer satisfy today's complex requirements. Future material systems are fundamentally important to growth markets, in which they have an economically key position. Tailor-made lightweight materials (tailor-made composites) with an adapted design are needed. These concepts have to be developed to design the optimum combination of components. This requires material-specific knowledge and the ability to make correlations, as well as the design of complex technologies. Continuous large-scale and mass production (in-line, in-situ), thus reducing the costs of previously expensive composite materials and material compounds, is also necessary. The present work spans the entire field of composite materials and material compounds in a comparable and comparative manner and abstract form. A summarizing publication on this still very new, but already broad-based scientific field is not yet available. The separation of the individual, firmly divided groups of the composite materials is the reason for this. Cross-connections are rarely made. The objective of this work is to compensate to some extent for this deficiency. Special consideration is given to definitions and classifications, manufacturing processes and the properties of the materials. Clear structures and overviews are presented. Mapping established and new technologies will contribute to the stability of the terms "mixed material compounds" and "hybrid material compounds". In addition, the problem of recycling and recycling technologies is discussed. In summary, areas for future research and development projects will be specified. Generalized concepts for tailor-made composite materials and material compounds are proposed ("adjusting screw scheme") with an eye toward various production routes, especially for semi-finished products and components, and the associated findings. These general material concepts are applied to own current research projects pertaining to metal-matrix and polymer-matrix composites and hybrid material compounds. Research fields for future projects are extrapolated. Particular attention is paid to hybrid material compounds as the mainstay of future developments in lightweight construction. In-line and in-situ processes play a key role for large-scale, cost- and resource-efficient production.

The aim of this study was to investigate a zirconia-matrix reinforced with metal powder (chromium, iron and stainless steel (AISI 316)) including processing, characterisation, and measurements of their properties (mechanical, thermal and electrical). Zirconia stabilised with 5.4 wt% Y₂0₃ (3 mol%) as the matrix was first studied and followed by an investigation of the effects of metal reinforcement on zirconia-matrix composites. Monolithic zirconia was pressureless sintered in air and argon to observe the effect of sintering atmosphere, while the composites were pressureless sintered in argon to avoid oxidation. Sintering was carried out at various temperatures for 1 hour and 1450°C was chosen to get almost fully dense samples. The density of the fired samples was measured using a mercury balance method and the densification behaviour was analysed using TMA (Thermo-mechanical Analysis). The TMA was also used to measure the coefficient of thermal expansion. In addition, thermal analysis using DTA and TGA was performed to observe reactions and phase transformations. Moreover, optical microscopy and SEM were used to observe the microstructures, XRD was used for phase identification, and mechanical properties including Vickers hardness, fracture toughness and bending strength were measured. The effect of thermal expansion mismatch on thermal stresses was also analysed and discussed. Finally, thermal diffusivity at room temperature and as a function of temperature was measured using a laser flash method, and to complete the study, electrical conductivity at room temperature was also measured. The investigation of monolithic zirconia showed that there was no significant effect of air and argon atmosphere during sintering on density, densification behaviour, microstructures, and properties (mechanical and thermal). Furthermore, the results were in good agreement with that reported by previous researchers. However, the presence of metal in the composites influenced the sintering behaviour and the densification process depends on the metal stability, reactivity, impurity, particle size, and volume fraction. Iron reacted with yttria (zirconia stabiliser), melted and reduced the densification temperature of monolithic zirconia, while chromium and AISI 316 did not significantly affect the densification temperature and did not react with either zirconia or yttria. AISI 316 melted during fabrication. Moreover, all of the metal reinforcements reduced the final shrinkage of monolithic zirconia. In terms of properties, the composites showed an increase in fracture toughness, and a reduction in Vickers hardness and strength with increasing reinforcement content. In addition, the thermal diffusivity of the composites showed an increase with reinforcement content for the zirconia/chromium and zirconia/iron composites, but not for the zirconia/AISI 316 composites due to intrinsic mircocracking. Furthermore, all the composites became electrically conductive with 20 vol% or more of reinforcement. It has been concluded that of those composites the zirconia/chromium system may be considered as having the best combination of properties and although further development is needed for such composites to be used in real applications in structural engineering, the materials may be developed based on these findings. In addition, these findings may be used in development of ceramic/metal joining as composite interlayers are frequently used.

A laboratory scale drum winder has been designed and built for the production of pre-preg. Cross-ply hybrid matrix laminates were made from the pre-preg with glass fibres/epoxy resin in the longitudinal plies and glass fibres/epoxy resin-urethane elastomer in the transverse ply. The addition of urethane to the matrix in the transverse plies alone increased the applied strains necessary for the initiation and development of transverse cracking during the extension of cross-ply laminates. This resulted in a smaller reduction in laminate stiffness (due to damage) at a prescribed level of strain. Damage resistance was similar to that in cross-ply laminates with urethane additions to the matrix in both the transverse and longitudinal plies (a uniform matrix laminate). It was found that urethane additions lead to improved damage resistance in cross-ply laminates because they lower the transverse ply modulus and increase the matrix toughness in the transverse ply. During the extension of cross-ply laminates, stable (constrained) transverse cracking was observed in thin transverse plies and unstable (brittle) transverse cracking in thick transverse plies. The effects of urethane additions on the development of constrained transverse cracking and brittle transverse cracking were modelled with a shear lag stress analysis combined with an energy balance and a statistical expression for the transverse ply strength respectively. The ultimate properties of hybrid matrix laminates, having improved damage resistance, were expected to be better than uniform matrix laminates with a similar urethane content in the matrix. However, the tensile strength of circular centre-notched (0,90)s hybrid matrix laminates was lower than uniform matrix counterparts and the compressive strength of (02,902)2s hybrid matrix laminates was similar to uniform matrix counterparts.

Particulate Reinforced Metal Matrix Composites, or PMMCs, consist of ceramic particulates dispersed in a metal matrix. Powder metallurgy (P/M) techniques are often employed to fabricate these materials. P/M offers the simplest way to ensure good distribution of reinforcement within the matrix. In this work, TiC particles have been dispersed in a Ti matrix, yielding a composite which combines the high hardness and abrasive nature of the ceramic phase with the refractory, metallic properties of Ti.
The microstructure of this material has been investigated for composites having various TiC content (2.5wt%-20wt%). Furthermore, the effect of sintering temperature and time on the microstructural evolution was investigated. The addition of TiC was seen to enhance the sinterability of Ti, making it possible to attain theoretical densities $>$99%. Results show that the optimum density is obtained using 2.5 to 5 wt% TiC at a temperature of 1440-1480$ sp circ$C for 2 hours. This study also illustrates the decrease in the microhardness of the TiC particles due to carbon diffusion from TiC into Ti matrix at high sintering temperatures. On the other hand, the addition of TiC significantly increases the overall hardness compared to that of pure Ti.

Magnesium (Mg) Metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced by ceramic reinforcements are being developed for a variety of applications in automotive and aerospace because of their strength-to-weight ratio. Reinforcement being considered includes SiC, Al2O3, Carbon fiber and B4C in order to improve the mechanical properties of MMCs. Microstructural and interfacial characteristics of MMCs can play a critical role in controlling the MMCs' mechanical properties. This study was carried out to understand the microstructural and interfacial development between Mg-9wt.Al-1wt.Zn (AZ91) alloy matrix and several reinforcements including SiC, Al2O3, Carbon fibers and B4C. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy was employed to investigate the microstructure and interfaces. Al increase in hardness due to the presence of reinforcements was also documented via Vicker's hardness measurements. Thermodynamic consideration based on Gibbs free energy was employed along with experimental results to describe the interfacial characteristics of MMCs. Reaction products from AZ91-SiC and AZ91-Al2O3 interfaces were identified as MgO, since the surface of SiC particles is typically covered with SiO2 and the MgO is the most thermodynamically stable phase in these systems. The AZ91-Carbon fiber interface consist of Al4C3 and this carbide phase is considered detrimental to the mechanical toughness of MMCs. The AZ91-B4C interface was observed to contain MgB2 and MgB2C2. In general, Vicker's hardness increased by 3X due to the presence of these reinforcements.
ID: 031001275; System requirements: World Wide Web browser and PDF reader.; Mode of access: World Wide Web.; Adviser: Yongho Sohn.; Title from PDF title page (viewed February 22, 2013).; Thesis (M.S.M.S.E.)--University of Central Florida, 2012.; Includes bibliographical references (p. 49-51).
M.S.M.S.E.
Masters
Materials Science Engineering
Engineering and Computer Science
Materials Science and Engineering

The effects of systematic variations in the size and volume fraction of reinforcing phase on the mechanical properties of and fracture processes in silicon carbide particlereinforced aluminium matrix composites have been studied. Tensile tests to failure have been performed to determine the mechanical properties of the composites. A simple model has been proposed for this behaviour. The micromechanisms of fracture have been investigated by a combination of fractographic and dynamic techniques. Matched fracture halves have been obtained from the composites and the fracture processes elucidated. Fracture proceeded by a ductile void nucleation, growth and coalescence mechanism. Void nucleation occurred at the reinforcing phase, with a change in nucleation mechanism on varying the micrstructural parameters. A simple critical stress criterion has been proposed for the nucleation process. Support for this proposal has been obtained by the study of sections through the failed tensile specimens. In situ scanning electron microscopy fracture studies have been performed. These revealed void nucleation before the onset of macroscopic cracking. Crack propagation has been shown to occur by the concurrent formation of microcracks ahead of the crack tip and failure of the joining matrix ligaments. The magnitude of matrix deformation has been shown to determine the extent of microcracking. Acoustic emissions have been monitored during tensile straining. Void nucleation events have been recorded from the onset of plastic deformation and continuing throughout the plastic régime until final failure. The suppression of void coalescence by the constaint imposed on matrix flow by rigidly-bonded interfaces has been proposed to account for the extended void growth in materials containing fractured particles. The importance of the local values of the microstructural parameters on the far-field strain at nucleation has been shown.

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) have been used in many applications (such as automotive, aerospace and construction) for many decades. Recently, there have been interesting developments in this type of composite, applying them in electronic and thermal applications such as with semiconductors, in electronic packaging and heat sinks. This is particularly the case for composites of a metal matrix with diamond which are considered a modern sub-class of metal matrix composites. However, while the thermal properties are exceptional, this class of composites has not been extensively examined for mechanical and tribological behaviour, and it may be possible to apply these composites in practical applications, especially those that require extreme mechanical and tribological strength, for example cutting resistance for security applications. Therefore, this research looks for a composite material consisting of metal matrix and diamond particles, which resists abrasive cutting. This progresses through a series of steps, developing methods to process the material, understanding the mechanics of abrasive behaviour and optimizing the composite structure to resist abrasive cutting. Gas Infiltration (GI) casting under gas pressure has been applied to metal matrices with relatively low melting point (aluminium (Al) and tin (Sn)) to obtain a significant penetration of the metal into a preform of diamond particles. Different diamond particle sizes (63-75, 212-250, 420-500 μm) were used to strengthen the Al matrix and diamond coated with a thin Ti layer was used to attempt to enhance the bonding forces between the aluminium matrix and diamond. Al-1 wt. % Mg as a matrix alloy was utilised to investigate the possible effect of Mg on bonding phases and to reduce the surface tension of molten aluminium during the infiltration process. Epoxy was also used as a matrix with diamond in this research by gravity infiltration. Tribological and microstructural tests were performed on the samples, and the results show that the surface modification (Ti coating) of diamond particles has an important role for enhancing the bonding between the aluminium matrix and diamond reinforcement as is apparent under SEM observation, thus improving wear resistance. The coating layer works to either catalyse the graphitisation of diamond surfaces to then dissolve carbon in the metal, or reacts at the diamond surfaces to form carbide crystallites at the interface. This may be one of the reasons contributing to the bonding between the different matrices and diamond. The presence of some of these phases was indicated with XRD patterns and Raman spectra. The principal characterization method was by abrasion cutting tests, which have been carried out on all the samples made. One particle size range, 420-500 μm, of diamond coated by Ti, has been used to manufacture composites with different matrices (titanium (Ti), nickel )Ni(, copper)Cu(, tin)Sn) and epoxy) using different production methods (PM and SPS) for the transition metal matrices due to their high melting points. The abrasion cutting tests of these composites showed that the bonding between the metal matrix and diamond reinforcement and the processing temperature, have an important role in enhancing the abrasion wear resistance of composites, rather than the hardness of matrices.

This thesis addresses aspects of the development of both processing methods and the assessment of the mechanical properties of titanium metal matrix composites in order for the material to be introduced with confidence into aero-engine applications. Assessment of the SM1140+ fibre has been carried out and compared with the SCS-6 and Trimarc fibres in order to gain an appreciation of the performance of these fibres in relation to each other to aid fibre selection and to aid further development of composite components. The SM1140+ fibre is found to fail almost always from the core and is consistent with a statistical distribution that can be modelled by a unimodal Weibull approach. The development of the SM2156 fibre was made in an effort to produce both a UK source and a lower cost source of fibre. Mechanical testing of fibre in both as-received and composite form revealed a decrease in strength when compared with results for the virgin, uncoated fibre and by deduction from SCS-6 composite mechanical behaviour. The deterioration of fibre properties appears to be caused by the rough surface of the SiC fibre causing a ‘keying’ effect that inhibits interfacial sliding. The high rate sputtering deposition process has been developed in order to obtain an alternative, lower cost method of producing matrix coated fibre. Testing of the MCF showed a mild deterioration of fibre strength during processing (due to fibre spooling), but still demonstrated the composite shows potential for production given further development.

Vývoj nových materiálů pro součásti v moderních technologiích vystavené extrémním podmínkám má v současné době rostoucí význam. Děje se tak v důsledku neustále se zvyšujících požadavků průmyslových odvětví na lepší konstrukční vlastnosti nosných materiálů. Ve světle těchto faktů si tato studie klade za cíl posoudit nové složení slitin s vysokou entropií, které se vyznačují vysokým aplikačním potenciálem pro kritické aplikace. Slitiny jsou připravovány práškovou metalurgií, t.j. kombinací mechanického legování a slinování v pevné fázi. Pro účely srovnávaní vlastností jsou vybrané kompozice vyrobeny také tradičními metalurgickými metodami v roztaveném stavu, jako je vakuové indukční tavení a následné lití nebo vakuové obloukové tavení. Prášková metalurgie umožňuje postupný vývoj kompozitů s kovovou matricí (MMC) prostřednictvím přípravy oxidicky zpevněných HEA slitin. To je možné díky inherentním in-situ reakcím během procesu výroby. Když se naopak zvolí výrobní postup z taveniny, připravený kovový materiál vykazuje velké rozdíly v mikrostrukturách a souvisejících vlastnostech, v porovnání se stejným materiálem vyrobeným práškovou cestou (PM). Vyrobené práškové a tavené materiály jsou detailně charakterizovány s ohledem na komplexní vyhodnocení vlivu různých metod zpracování. Práce se zejména orientuje na mikrostrukturní charakteristiky materiálů a jejich mechanické vlastnosti, včetně vlivu tepelného zpracování na fázové transformaci a mikrostrukturní stabilitu připravených materiálů.

Thesis (Ph.D.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering, 1998.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 156-162).
The work covers transformation superplasticity of metals, alloys and metal matrix composites. Fundamental studies of transformation superplasticity in unreinforced metals, which either deform plastically or by creep, form the basis of further investigations in metal matrix composites. Experiments and analytical modeling are complemented by numerical analysis. The transformation superplastic behavior is related to microstructure and chemical composition. Based on an existing linear theory, a non-linear model is developed and applied to the experimental data. Numerical methods are used to model the stress-, strain and temperature evolution during the phase transformation. The results are in good agreement with the experiment and analytical predictions. First, transformation superplasticity of iron and iron-TiC composites is demonstrated with strains of 450% and 230% respectively. The reduction of the transformation superplasticity in the composites is attributed to the dissolution of TiC in iron and effect which is shown for iron-carbon alloys. Effects of transient primary creep, ratchetting and partial transformation through the ferrite-austenite phase field are examined. Second, transformation superplasticity of zirconium is demonstrated for the first time with a strain of 270% without fracture. Partial transformation resulting from high cycle frequencies is analyzed and related to material properties and cycle characteristics. Finally, nickel aluminide with unstabilized zirconia particulates shows significant higher strain rates upon thermal cycling as compared to the unreinforced matrix. Although, the fracture strain of 23% is below the superplastic limit, the composite shows a high strain rate sensitivity of m = 0.71, which is a necessary characteristic of transformation superplasticity.
by Peter Zwigl.
Ph.D.

Ferroelectric-reinforced metal matrix composites (FR-MMCs) show promise as high damping materials for structural applications. Most structural materials are valued based on their stiffness and strength; however, stiff materials typically have limited inherent ability to dampen mechanical or acoustic vibrations. The addition of ferroelectric ceramic particles may also augment the strength of the matrix, creating a multifunctional composite. In this work, the damping behavior of FR-MMCs created by the addition of barium titanate (BaTiO3) discontinuous reinforcement in a bearing bronze (Cu-10w%Sn) matrix has been studied. It has been shown that even when combined with other traditional composite mechanisms, added damping ability has been achieved due to the ferroelectric nature of the reinforcement. FR-MMCs currently represent a material system capable of exhibiting increased damping ability, as compared to the structural metal matrix alone.
Master of Science

Ve všeobecnosti, poznatky o design slitin, jejich výrobě a výběru legujúcich prvků sú omezené na slitiny s jedním základním prvkem. Tento fakt ale výrazně limituje možnosti a volnost výběru prvků pro dosáhnuti speciálních vlastností a mikrostruktur. V poslední dekádě se ukázalo, že materiálová věda a inženýrství nejsou ještě zdaleka prozkoumané v důsledku objevu nové třídy materiálů nazvané vysoko entropické slitiny (HEA high entropy alloys). Jejich objev upoutal pozornost vědecké komunity. Základní koncept pro jejich design je, že namísto jednoho, nebo dvou základních prvků obsahují minimálně 5 prvků v podobných atomových koncentracích. V posledních letech se objevila skupina materiálů odvozená od HEA, nazvaná slitiny so střednou entropii (MEA medium entropy alloys). Na rozdíl od HEA ale obsahují 3, nebo 4 prvky. Táto práce je věnovaná studiu přípravy a charakterizaci HEA, MEA a jejich kompozitů s pomocí metod práškové metalurgie. V této práci byli dohromady zkoumány tři kompozice: AlCoCrFeNiTi0.5, Co1.5Ni1.5CrFeTi0.5 a CoCrNi, kompozity s kovovou matricí (MMC metal matrix composites) vyztužené částicemi B4C s CoCrNi jako matricí. Hloubková mikrostrukturní a mechanická analýza těchto materiálů byla provedena pomoví metod rastrovací a transmisní elektronové mikroskopie spojené s tahovými a ohybovými zkouškami. V průběhu celé studie se objevovaly problémy s kontaminací kyslíkem, co se projevilo vznikem značného množství oxidů v připravených materiálech. U Slitiny AlCoCrFeNiTi0.5 byla naměřena tvrdost přesahující 800 HV. Její houževnatost ale byla velice omezena. V její mikrostruktuře byly identifikovány částice in-situ TiC v důsledku přítomnosti organického, anti-aglomeračního činidla (metanolu) v mlecí misce. Tato reakce může být použita v budoucnu k přípravě MMC se záměrnou disperzí TiC. Na druhé straně, slitina CoCrNi ukázala vysoké hodnoty tažnosti (26%) a meze pevnosti přes 1000 MPa. Mikrostruktura obsahovala majoritní FCC fázi s BCC precipitáty. Tahle slitina byla z důvodu vysoké tažnosti zvolena pro přípravu kompozitu s výztuží B4C. V průběhu slinování ale došlo k reakci mezi přítomným Cr a B4C, které výsledkem byl Cr5B3 borid. Tento kompozit mel pevnost v tahu 1400 MP a extrémne jemnozrnnou strukturu. Celková tažnost ale klesla na 1.9 %. Slitina AlCoCrFeNiTi0.5, která mela strukturu složenou jen z FCC tuhého roztoku dosáhla nejlepší kombinaci mechanických vlastností s pevností přesahující 1300 MPa a dostatečnou tažností 4%. Prášková metalurgie se ukázala jako vhodná metoda pro přípravu HEA a MEA slitin a jejich kompozitů, s dobrou kombinací pevnosti a tažnosti. Tato metoda dovoluje měnit mikrostrukturní parametry připravených materiálů jednoduchou úpravou parametrů procesu.

Diamond reinforced metal-matrix composites (MMCs) are utilised for cutting, drilling, grinding and polishing a variety of materials, in many cases being the most efficient and economic choice. The increased cost of synthetic diamond abrasives has led to constant search for ways to extent diamond tool life. This has been realised by introducing chemical reactions at the interfaces in order to develop chemical bridges between diamonds and metals that prolong the retention of crystals at the operating surfaces of the tools. Alloying the matrix with carbide forming metals is a way to introduce interfacial reactivity, but involves problems with concentrating the alloying element at the interfacial region and may cause alteration of the wear resistance characteristics of the binder, which may be an undesirable effect. A recent development and alternative method to alloying is the coating of the diamonds with carbide forming metals, offering unique advantages. Although metal-coated diamonds are commercially available, the effectiveness of their usage and the understanding of interfacial phenomena occurring in composites reinforced with such abrasives still remain unexplored. The work carried out in this research has examined the interfacial bonding in diamond MMCs reinforced with metal-coated crystals. The work described in this thesis included a preliminary study on diamond/metal reactivity serving the need to identify the mode and intensity at which synthetic diamonds and elemental metals interact at various conditions. This was achieved by examining the changes occurring to diamond surfaces when crystals were heated in the presence of various elemental metals. The latter were brought in contact with the diamonds either in the form of loose or hot-pressed metallic powders or in the form of thin metal coatings deposited onto the crystals by vapour deposition methods. Results showed that metals, depending on their electronic configuration, either catalyse the graphitisation of diamond surfaces and dissolve carbon or react at the diamond surfaces to form carbide crystallites. Dissolution of the diamond occurred by formation of oriented hexagonal/triangular and rectangular pits on octahedral {111} and cubic {100} surfaces respectively. Intensity of interactions strongly depended on heating temperature and time. Metal coatings were found to efficiently react with the diamonds only after annealing at temperatures of the order of 1000°C subsequent to the deposition. The diamond impregnated MMCs investigated in this research were reinforced with various types of metal-coated and metal-powder encapsulated diamonds of the carbide forming metals of Ti, Cr and W. The tested composites included two types of metal-matrices that of standard plain cobalt as well as some selected alloyed matrices typically employed in practice. Interfacial bonding characterisation and assessment of the potential capability of the metal-coatings to offer enhanced diamond retention has been made by determining the mechanical properties of the composites and by conducting extensive microscopic analysis of the developed fracture surfaces. The results suggested that incorporating metal-coated crystals could be beneficial in improving the diamond retention, provided that consolidation temperature is sufficiently high to favour diamond/metal reactions. Results showed improvements in mechanical properties to be achieved when reinforcing with the coated diamonds compared to non-coated grit. The characteristics of the interactions at the diamond surfaces in the composites conformed to the findings of the preliminary study on the fundamentals of diamond/metals interactions. Reactions on crystal surfaces took place at the locations where prior dissolution of the diamond had occurred. Metal coatings were found to provide excellent protection to the diamonds against catalysed dissolution by aggressive binders. Thin coatings suffered from loss of continuity in systems were the coating metal atoms were readily soluble in the metal-matrix. This was avoided with thicker coatings that also appeared to provide a supplementary mechanical effect in addition to the chemical bonding in improving the retention of the diamond crystals. Encapsulation of diamond with carbide forming metals was a hybrid method between alloying the metal-matrix and coating the crystals. Although encapsulation provided sufficient levels of chemical interactions, it was shown that diamonds could not be efficiently protected from aggressive binders. In addition, composites impregnated with powder-encapsulated diamonds suffered from inadequate sintering of the carbide forming metal zones surrounding the crystals when consolidation was performed at relatively low temperatures which was reflected in inferior mechanical properties.

Welding of metal matrix composites (MMCs) is an alternative to their mechanical joining, since they are difficult to machine. Published literature in fusion welding of similar composites shows metallurgical problems. This study investigates the weldability of A359/SiC/10p aluminum SiC MMC. Statistical experiments were performed to identify the significant variables and their effects on the hardness, tensile and bending strengths, ductility, and microstructure of the weld. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was used to predict the preheat temperature field across the weld and the weld pool temperature. Welding current, welding speed, and the preheat temperature (300-350??C) affected the weld quality significantly. It was seen that the fracture of the welded specimens was either in the base MMC or in the weld indicating a stronger interface between the weld and the base MMC. Oxides formation was controlled along the weld joint. Low heat inputs provided higher weld strengths and better weld integrity. It was found that the weld strengths were approximately 85% of the parent material strength. The weld region had higher extent of uniform mixing of base and filler metal when welded at low currents and high welding speeds. These adequate thermal conditions helped the SiC particles to stay in the central weld region. The interface reaction between the matrix and SiC particles was hindered due to controlled heat inputs and formation of harmful Al4C3 flakes was suppressed. The hardness values were found to be slightly higher in the base metal rich region. There was no significant loss in the hardness of the heat affected zone. The ductility of the weld was considerably increased to 6.0-7.0% due to the addition of Al-Si filler metal.

The drive of the aerospace industry to use better materials to save weight and increase the performance of the components has been the principal motive to create new materials like Titanium Metal Matrix Composites (Ti-MMC). The Ti-MMCs were designed to combine high stiffness with low weight. Most aerospace components are exposed to fatigue loads during their operation life, hence extensive research has been carried out to investigate the behaviour of Ti-MMC under fatigue loading. During fatigue of Ti-MMC in four point bend specimens, two cracks grow quazisymmetrical at an angle relative to the normal direction of the notch. It is clear therefore that Mode I and Mode II are present in the specimen. Solutions for predicting the Stress Intensity Factor (SIF) for TI-MMC under these load conditions have not been carried out before and presents difficulties, both analytically and experimentally. Some experimental technique like Stereo-Imaging Technique (Sin, Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Laser interferometry displacement gage system and mechanical extensometer have been used to calculate the SIF in Ti-MMC specimens by measuring the Crack Open Displacement COD during the fatigue crack propagation, but these technique have limited measuring capabilities. However, the Moire interferometry technique gives very sensitive and detailed data, due to its ability to measure the full field displacements near the crack tip. Moire Interferometry was applied in this thesis to calculate KI and KII using different analytical methods, for fatigue crack growth in unidirectional Metal Matrix Composite. The composite considered was Textron SCS-6ffi-6-4 and the bend was carried out in four point bending at room temperature. Zero load ratio and four different load ranges were considered. Two finite element models were also developed to predict the crack path direction and to calculate the SIFs. The results obtained from FE models and from the experimental technique show good correlation. The experimental results though show that the SIFs do not reduce in a linear manner but have several stages of crack retardation which is believed to be due to fibres becoming active in bridging behind the crack tip. The results presented are unique in that very little data on SIFs in Ti-MMC material is available and the effect of off-axis cracks on the KI and KII SIFs has not been addressed until now.

The fatigue and interfacial characteristics of a unidirectional, SiC (SCS 6), fibre reinforced Ti 6Al 4V metal matrix composite have been investigated using a series of fatigue crack propagation, total life, and interfacial characterisation techniques. A room temperature crack arrest to catastrophic failure (CA/CF) transition was quantified using the initial stress intensity factor range ΔKapp. This transition occurred between 21 and 18 MPa√m in the three point bend geometry, and was found to be dependent on volume fraction of intact fibres bridging the crack. Increasing the test temperature to 300˚C had different effects on the resistance to fatigue crack growth depending on crack opening displacements and test piece stiffness. Total life fatigue tests revealed that the dominant failure mechanism was matrix fatigue cracking and fibre bridging. The extent of fatigue crack growth and fibre bridging was dependant on the applied stress and test temperature. The introduction of a dwell period at maximum load resulted in a small reduction in the total fatigue life. Post fatigue fibre push out tests identified that fatigue caused a reduction of interfacial properties below the as received levels. This reduction of interfacial properties was dependent on fatigue test temperature and initial loading conditions.

The in-situ synthesis of piezoelectric-reinforced metal matrix composites has been attempted with a variety of target matrix and reinforcement materials using reaction synthesis and high energy ball milling. Zinc oxide (ZnO) and barium titanate (BaTiO₃) have been successfully synthesized within copper and iron matrices in a range of volume percentages using reaction synthesis. The microstructures of these composites have been analyzed and found to partially consist of an interpenetrating microstructure. After considering experimental findings and thermodynamic issues involved with synthesis, ideal reaction system parameters have been identified that promote the creation of a composite with ideal microstructure and formulated composition. Reactive high energy ball milling has been used to create copper matrix composites reinforced with zinc oxide and copper matrix composites reinforced with lead titanate (PbTiO₃). The microstructures and compositions of each volume percentage formulation of the composite powders have been analyzed. In this work, several promising piezoelectric-reinforced metal matrix composite systems have been identified as having potential to be synthesized in an in-situ manner.
Master of Science

The flexural behaviour of three different hybrid fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) matrix composites, i.e. S2-glass/E-glass/epoxy, TR50S carbon/IM7 carbon/epoxy, and E-glass/TR50S carbon/epoxy hybrid FRP composites, has been investigated. The main objectives of this study were to: (i) improve the flexural properties of the parent composite materials, i.e. E-glass/epoxy and TR50S carbon fibre/epoxy composites, through substitution of stronger fibres, i.e. S2-glass and IM7 carbon fibres, for the fibres of the parent composite materials, and (ii) determine the optimum stacking configurations that produced the maximum increase in flexural properties of the resulting hybrid composites. In addition to these, two secondary objectives related to the preliminary investigation of determining the optimum stacking configurations have also been established. The two secondary objectives were to: (i) determine the optimum values of the processing parameters of the composites under investigation, and (ii) determine the compressive strength and compressive modulus of the parent materials.The investigation was carried out experimentally, thus data presented and analysed were obtained from laboratory work. Optimum values of five processing parameters, i.e. (i) the concentration of matrix precursor within the solvent solution utilised to wet the fibres, (ii) the compressive pressure applied during hotpress curing, (iii) the vacuum pressure of the atmosphere inside the curing chamber, (iv) the dwell time during hot-press curing, and (v) the holding temperature during hot-press curing, have been established. The criteria for determining the optimum values of these parameters were optimum fibre content, minimum void content, and optimum flexural properties. Compressive strength and compressive modulus of the parent composite materials have also been determined.Specimens were cut from flat composite plates using a diamond-tipped circular blade saw. The longitudinal edges of the specimens were carefully polished to remove any possible edge damage due to cutting. The composite plates were produced from preforms comprised of a number of glass fibre/epoxy prepregs, carbon fibre/epoxy prepregs or a combination of these. All the fabrication procedures were carried out using manual techniques. Whilst the compressive tests were conducted in accordance with the ASTM D3410-03 standard, flexural tests were carried out according to Procedure A of the ASTM D790-07 standard. Span-to depth ratios, S/d, of 16, 32, and 64 were selected for flexural testing in order to determine the minimum value of S/d required to ensure flexural failure rather than shear failure. Fibre and void contents were evaluated from optical micrograph images of the slices perpendicular to the fibre direction of the samples.It was concluded that the optimum values of the five processing parameters under investigations were: (i) epoxy concentration, C[subscript]e ~ 50 wt%, (ii) compressive pressure, p[subscript]c ~ 1.00 MPa, (iii) vacuum pressure, p[subscript]v ~ 0.035 MPa, (iv) dwell time, t ~ 30 minutes, and (v) holding temperature, T ~ 120 °C. Compressive tests revealed that the order of compressive strength for the parent composite materials were arranged as follows: S2-glass fibre/epoxy (476 MPa), E-glass fibre/epoxy (430 MPa), IM7 carbon fibre/epoxy (426 MPa), and TR50S carbon fibre/epoxy (384 MPa). The compressive modulus of these parent composite materials were found to be ordered as follows: IM7 carbon fibre/epoxy (67.9 GPa), TR50S carbon fibre/epoxy (61.8 GPa), S2-glass fibre/epoxy (45.1 GPa), and E-glass fibre/epoxy (32.9 GPa). After considering these compressive properties, three different hybrid combinations, as mentioned earlier, were manufactured and evaluated with the prepreg layers of the fibre composites possessing higher compressive strength being placed at the compressively loaded side of the flexural specimens.Shorter beam specimens (S/d = 16) of the three hybrid systems exhibited increased flexural strength as the amount of stronger fibre content was increased, but no hybrid effect was noted. The increase appeared to follow the rule of mixtures and this was attributed to their failure mode being shear failure. For beams tested at S/d = 32 and S/d = 64, the three hybrid systems demonstrated three different trends. The S2-glass fibre/E-glass fibre/epoxy hybrid system, where the S2-glass fibre (substituted at the compressive loading face) was slightly stronger and stiffer compared to the E-glass fibre at the tensile side, demonstrated increases in flexural strength together with the presence of a hybrid effect following partial substitution of the S2-glass fibre for E-glass fibres at the compressive side. The IM7 carbon fibre/TR50S carbon fibre/epoxy hybrid system, where the IM7 carbon fibre (substituted at the compressive side) was slightly stronger but significantly stiffer in compression compared to the TR50S fibre at the tensile side, exhibited a slight increase in flexural strength that appeared to obey the rule of mixtures.This result was attributed to the strength increase in the compressive side introduced by the substituted fibres not being sufficient to suppress the increase of internal compressive stress due to the increase in compressive modulus of the substituted fibres. The E-glass fibre/TR50S carbon fibre/epoxy hybrid system, where the E-glass fibre (substituted at the compressive side) was found to be slightly stronger but significantly less stiff in compression compared to the TR50S fibre at the tensile side, demonstrated a significant increase in flexural modulus and also exhibited a significant hybrid effect. The decrease in internal compressive stresses generated at the compressive side due to the decreased compressive modulus of the substituted fibre, when combined with the increase in compressive strength of the substituted fibre, was thought to led to the significant increase of flexural strength for this hybrid system.General trends observed in flexural modulus for the three hybrid systems were reasonably similar with any change in flexural modulus appearing to obey the rule of mixtures. Whilst an increase in flexural modulus was noted for higher contents of stronger fibre in the case of the S2-glass fibre/E-glass fibre/epoxy hybrid system and IM7 carbon fibre/TR50S carbon fibre/epoxy hybrid system, a decrease in flexural modulus with increased quantities of stronger fibre was exhibited by the E-glass fibre/TR50S carbon fibre/epoxy hybrid system. The increase or decrease in flexural modulus was attributed to the relative stiffness in compression of the substituted fibre when compared to that of the respective parent composite materials.Unlike the S2-glass fibre/E-glass fibre/epoxy hybrid system and IM7 carbon fibre/TR50S carbon fibre/epoxy hybrid system that did not exhibit any significant trend with regards the effect of the substitution of stronger fibre at the compressive side, the E-glass fibre/TR50S carbon fibre hybrid system demonstrated a significant increase in the energy stored to maximum stress with increasing content of the stronger fibre. This increase was mainly attributed to the increased strain–to-maximum stress of the hybrid system with respect to that of the parent composite material.In addition, for the three hybrid systems under investigation, the most significant change in flexural properties was noticed following substitution of the first layer at the compressive face. The relative position with respect to the neutral plane of the substituted layer was thought to be the reason for this phenomenon. It was also noted that flexural properties increased with the increase in S/d. A change in failure morphology was noted with the change of S/d from 16 to 32. It was thus determined that a S/d ratio of at least 32 was required in order to promote flexural failure (as opposed to shear failure). For the S2-glass fibre/E-glass fibre/epoxy hybrid system, this change appeared more obvious in comparison with that the other two hybrid systems with this change being accompanied by a significant increase in flexural strength.The main general conclusions that could be drawn from this investigation were that, although the flexural modulus appeared to obey the rule of mixture, an increase in flexural strength together with the presence of a hybrid effect, would most probably be observed when the fibre substituted at the compressive side possessed a significantly lower modulus combined with significantly higher compressive strength as demonstrated by the hybrid TR50S carbon - E-glass FRP composites. The most significant change in properties was exhibited by the first layer substitution whilst increasing the value of S/d resulted in an increase of flexural strength, with S/d = 32 being determined to be sufficient in order to promote flexural failure as opposed to shear failure.