초록 ▼

A process for making composite materials, namely reinforced Al-metal matrix composites based on either: (I) Al--W intermetallic phase and Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 ceramic whiskers, or (II) Al--Mo intermetallic phase and Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 ceramic whiskers. This process involves the oxidation of aluminum using

A process for making composite materials, namely reinforced Al-metal matrix composites based on either: (I) Al--W intermetallic phase and Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 ceramic whiskers, or (II) Al--Mo intermetallic phase and Al.sub.2 O.sub.3 ceramic whiskers. This process involves the oxidation of aluminum using tungsten oxide in powder form for product I, and that of aluminum and molybdenum oxide in powder form for product II. Product I contains an Al--W intermetallic phase, some sapphire whiskers, and a continuous Al-metal matrix. Product II contains an Al--Mo intermetallic phase, sapphire whiskers, and a continuous Al-metal matrix. The alumina whiskers are formed as a result of two reactions. They are: (i) the oxidation between the pre-mixed Al and the oxide, and (ii) the oxidation of Al with the atmospheric environment in the presence of the oxide, which acts as a catalytic agent for the reaction. These newly invented products are hard, strong and light. They are fabricated at above the melting point of aluminum, typically above 800.degree. C. and preferably around 1000.degree. C., and no sophisticated facility is required in the production process. Based on the above powder mixtures of I, or II, additional powders, for example. carbon (C), silicon dioxide (SO.sub.2) or other metal oxides, can be mixed to further improve the structural properties of the composites.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A process for forming a metal matrix composite, the process comprising the steps of:(a) mixing a metal powder and a refractory metal oxide powder to form a powder mixture, said metal powder comprising aluminum and said powder mixture having a weight percent of said metal

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A process for forming a metal matrix composite, the process comprising the steps of:(a) mixing a metal powder and a refractory metal oxide powder to form a powder mixture, said metal powder comprising aluminum and said powder mixture having a weight percent of said metal powder between about 47-95;(b) molding said powder mixture under pressure to form a shape; and(c) firing said shape at a temperature between about 660-1100.degree. C. wherein said refractory metal oxide powder reacts with said metal powder to form a reinforcing phase in a metal matrix.