Composite Materials

· When materials are processed or used at high temperatures thermo-dynamic reactions can take place. The diagram illustrates these reactions at a fiber matrix interface in a metal matrix composite.

· If the phase diagram for the two materials permits, solid solutions will form at the boundaries of the fiber and matrix phases and alter their mechanical properties. The interfacial boundaries are of large surface area and diffusion distances can be short.
·Intermetallic compounds can also form and these may have different mechanical properties than the fibers or the matrix.

From: Schaffer, et al, "The Science & Design of Engineering Materials," Irwin (1995)