Metal and Ceramic Matrix Composites

Describes the applications of composite materials, manufacturing and processing methods used in the production of composite materials, the mechanical behavior of different matrix materials, and structure-property relations, focusing on failure and fracture mechanisms. This text considers various fibers and composite materials in development.

With contributions from leading experts in their respective fields, Metal and Ceramic Matrix Composites provides a comprehensive overview of topics on specific materials and trends. It is a subject regularly included as a final year option in materials science courses and is also of much industrial and academic interest.

The book begins with a selection of chapters describing the most common commercial applications of composite materials, including those in the aerospace, automotive, and power generation industries. Section 2 outlines manufacturing and processing methods used in the production of composite materials ranging from basic aluminium matrix composites, through particle reinforced composites, to composites using novel matrix fibres such as titanium-silicon carbide and ceramics. Section 3 is devoted to the mechanical behaviour of different matrix materials and structure-property relations, with particular attention paid to failure and fracture mechanisms. The final section considers those new fibres and composite materials currently in development, including high strength copper composites, porous particle composites, active composites, and ceramic nanocomposites.