Survey of Metal-Matrix Technology for Fabrication of Bridging Structures

摘要

A comprehensive survey is made of metal-matrix composite (MMC) materials to assess their availability and applicability for bridging structures. Projections are made of the availability and cost of the materials surveyed and MMC with insufficient materials property data are identified. Evaluation of MMC for bridging applications are made using generalized and specific computer-aided design technology. Metal-matrix composites are shown to possess the potential for substantial weight savings in bridging structures, particularly when structural reconfiguration is allowed, and where combinations of materials, rather than a monolithic uniform single material type is used.