Compatibility problems generated in graphite fiber - metal matrix composites
The matrix of graphite fiber reinforced resin composites limits their useful temperature of application to a maximum of about 300/sup 0/C. Efforts have been made to increase the usable temperature of graphite fiber composites by incorporating the fibers into metal matrices. This study describes the work in this area and covers aspects such as chemical compatibility, composite fabrication technology, and mechanical properties. The single graphite fibers coated with nickel were shown to undergo structural recrystallization. Techniques were developed to stop the structural recrystallization by coating the fibers with barrier coatings such as pyrolytic graphite. A method of composite fabrication was developed. Graphite-7075Al alloy, graphite-Pb, 2% Sn alloy, and graphite-Zn, 2% Sn ally composites were fabricated by liquid metal infiltration of nickel-coated graphite fibers. Nickel coating acts as a coupling agent to improve the wetting of graphite fibers by molten metals or alloys. A heat-treatment method was developed to improve the tensile strength of graphite-Al composite. Typical mechanical and physical properties of these composites are presented, and potential applications for these materials are explored.
- OSTI ID:
- 5567870
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Thesis (Ph. D.)
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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