Metal Matrices
Metal Matrix Composites (MMC)
- High performance reinforcements
- particles, whiskers, or fibers
- in a metallic matrix
- aluminum, titanium, Mg, Cu, …
- MMC first use was in the Space Shuttle boron/Al tubes
- Incorporation of second phase (reinforcement) into metal significantly affects the propogation of pressure waves through the material by acting as sites for scattering and attenuation
- Boron reinforced Al has 5 times increase in dampening capacity
- High thermal conductivity of metal matrix with low thermal expansion of reinforcement is excellent for electrical applications
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