Powder Metallurgy Processing of Intermetallic Matrix Composites

Abstract

AbstractIntermetallic compounds are similar to ceramics because they are stoichiometric, with limited compositional ranges and brittle behavior. The limited ductility forces a reliance on powder techniques for shaping and consolidation. The high temperature character of intermetallics is beneficial to high temperature service, but this same attribute contributes to difficulty in processing. This paper reviews the several powder approaches to forming intermetallic structures. Examples are given on powders, consolidation options, and properties. Densification maps are introduced for estimation of consolidation cycles. Unfortunately, many of the composites exhibit little strengthening benefit from incorporation of reinforcing phases.