The properties of particle reinforced metal matrix composites (MMCs) are largely influenced by the homogeneity of the particle distribution. The possibility of the fabrication of MMC powders with a homogeneous particle distribution, a high bulk density and low gas contents by the process of mechanical alloying have been investigated. The milling atmosphere and the type of process control agent have been varied in order to optimize the gas contents and furthermore to take advantage of additional strengthening by oxide or carbide formation. Measurements of the microhardness, the bulk density, the homogeneity of the particle distribution and the gas contents have been done. The progress in reaction milling of graphite has been studied by XRD measuretuents.
Fatigue-life-time behaviour bas been examined of extruded 6061 aluminium alloy composites reinforced with 15 vol.% SiC and 10 vol.% Al2O3 particles. The peak particle sizes are at about 4.5 and 6 µm. Within measured S-N curves the fatigue life-time at given stress amplitudes of SiCp/AA6061 is superiour to that of Al2O3p/AA6061 in the low-cycle fatigue region as well as in the high-cycle fatigue region. The discussion of these results has been done by means of theoretical evaluated crack propagation curves. Interfacial bonding has been studied by means of TEM investigations
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