CHARACTERIZATION OF INTERFACES IN METAL-MATRIX COMPOSITES

ABSTRACTThe interface microstructure and composition in a SiC particulate reinforced Al 2014 composite have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray microanalysis (EDS), electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), and secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS). The investigation concentrated on determining the alloy partitioning, the precipitation of distinct phases and the presence of impurity elements at or near the interface, that results from the processing and subsequent heat treating of the metal matrix composite.