The effect of fibre/matrix interactions on matrix and fibre chemistry in MMCs

The interface reactions and their effect on microstructural and chemical changes in composite have been studied. The objective of this study was to develop MG-alloy/alumina fibre composite for aerospace applications. Composite materials due to their light weight and superior mechanical and other properties offer great advantage over monolithic materials. However, they also pose new problems e.g. non-infiltration defects and Fibre-Matrix reactions during manufacturing stage. All these factors may influence the resultant properties of materials. It was observed of fibre and matrix to a great extent, and thus may effect the resultant mechanical properties. The least effect was observed in the case of AZ91 alloy reinforced with Sd on either low or medium porosity. Microstructural and chemical changes of the composite matrix may be attributed to coring due to influence of fibres on the solidification behavior. In the case of LD fibres Fibre/Matrix interaction resulted in shifting the MG-Al alloy based Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ fibre composite to Al-Mg based MgO fibre composite. (author)