Direct fabrication of an in-situ Al composite using selective laser melting process

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) are increasingly demanded from broad applications in ground transportation (auto and rail), aerospace, thermal management, industrial and recreation markets. Attractive characteristics include high-temperature capability, high thermal conductivity, low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), high specific stiffness and strength, and excellent wear resistance. Not only the MMCs are now broadly applied and represent an important established class of metallic materials, but also a dramatic expansion of applications is expected in this relatively new class of materials. For example, the aerospace industries desire to enhance the performance of commercial and military aircrafts through MMCs especially, aluminium composites (Oleg et al. 2004, Rawal 2001).