Achieving multi-functional properties via squeeze cast hybrid metal matrix composites

Traditionally, when selecting a composite for a product, a manufacturer chooses from the commercially available composites. Very seldom, attention is paid in optimizing the functional properties of the product with the use of a "designed" composite meant specifically for that product. That is, the avenue of improving the functional performance of a product with a composite having a specially tailored property is rarely pursued. The main reason is often the misconceived notion of major challenges involved in the development of a "designed" composite. In this presentation, the concept of designing and fabricating composites with tailored properties via squeeze cast hybrid composites is introduced. This type of composite is known to provide properties which are different from the commercial composites. In this case, a hybrid SiC/Al is compared with a commercial SiC/Al in terms of both the room and elevated temperature properties. Figure 1 shows the microstructure of the hybrid SiC/Al, which consists of two reinforcements instead of one as in traditional commercial composites.