Youngstown State University CTME -- Center for Transportation and Materials Engineering. CTME: Novel Composites for Light Weight Vehicle Braking Systems 2.

摘要

This project centered on a close interaction between the TCON Division of Fire line, Inc. and various individuals affiliated with the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) at Youngstown State University (YSU). Fireline, a local company within 10 minutes walking distance from the YSU campus core, has developed a unique process that utilizes displacement reactions to transform ceramic preforms into ceramic-metallic co-continuous interpenetrating phase composites with enhanced properties while retaining the original shape and dimensions of the preform. Through initial development efforts, it was discovered that TCON(TradeName) composite materials have extraordinary macro-, micro-, and nanoscale features that lead to their exceptional properties ideal for applications that require cost effective, lightweight materials. The unique properties of TCON composites in general are derived from the fine interlocking of ceramic and metallic phases throughout the composite microstructure. The ceramic phase provides high stiffness, low density and high strength to the composite, while the continuous network of reinforced metal gives high thermal & electrical conductivity, and high fracture toughness to the material. Such properties make these materials excellent candidates for replacing traditional materials in a number of applications, such as high wear/corrosion resistant refractory shapes for molten metal transport and/or containment in industrial processes (the major area in which Fireline currently commercializes some of its TCON products), or for new applications, including light weight, high strength components for vehicle braking systems.