Method to produce high temperature oxidation resistant metal matrix composites by fiber density grading

摘要

A method to produce high temperature oxidation resistant metal matrix composites by fiber diameter grading, which comprises the steps of (a) laying up an alloy/fiber preform consisting of a plurality of alternating layers of metal alloy and fibers and (b) consolidating the preform under suitable conditions, wherein the layers of fibers in the preform are graduated so that fiber density is lower nearer what will become the exposed surface of the composite and higher toward the interior of the composite. The difference in fiber density is achieved by spacing the near-surface fibers further apart than the interior fibers.