METPREG-METALLIC PREPREGS FOR THE COMPOSITES INDUSTRY

摘要

Two scientists from Touchstone Research Laboratory (Triadelphia, WV 26059) expect their work in metal matrix composites to cause a revolutionary change in the composites industry. Brian Gorton and Virgule Trick made this prediction in a paper presented at SAMEP 2004 (Long Beach CA May 16-20) Metal matrix composites consist of a metal or metallic alloy matrix reinforced by fibers, whiskers, particulates, filaments, or wires of another material. MMCs, having advantages over both metal alloys and polymer/fiber composites are expected to find applications in Pressure Vessels/Storage Tanks/Cryogenic Ducts, Rocket Motor Cases, Artillery Shells and Mortar/Gun Tubes, Lightweight Structures for Transportation, Selective Reinforcement of Metallic Structures for Aircraft, Flywheels, and Sporting Goods. The advantages of MMCs over monolithic metals are higher specific strength (strength-to-density ratio) and specific stiffness (stiffness-to-density ratio), improved fatigue and wear resistance, better thermal properties at elevated temperatures, and tailorable coefficients of thermal expansion.