ABSTRACT
The metal matrix composites (MMCs) considered herein consist of particulate ceramic compounds or ceramic fibers in metal matrices. These materials have been developed to obtain property combinations not possible with either unreinforced metals or ceramics alone. Specifically, the properties of metals which are improved by reinforcement are elastic modulus (especially on a density-compensated basis), strength at room and elevated temperatures, wear resistance, and control of physical properties, particularly the coefficient of thermal expansion.
