Intermetallic bonded ceramic matrix composites

摘要

A range of carbide and oxide-based cermets have been developed utilizing ductile nickel aluminide (Ni(sub 3)Al) alloy binder phases. Some of these, notably materials based upon tungsten and titanium carbides (WC and TiC respectively), offer potential as alternatives to the cermets which use cobalt binders (i.e. WC/Co). Samples have been prepared by blending commercially available Ni(sub 3)Al alloy powders with the desired ceramic phases, followed by hot-pressing. Alumina (Al(sub 2)O(sub 3)) matrix materials have also been prepared by pressurized molten alloy infiltration. The microstructure, flexure strength and fracture toughness of selected materials are discussed.