PROCESSING AND PROPERTIES OF INTERMETALLIC CERAMIC COMPOSITES WITH INTERPENETRATING MICROSTRUCTURE/

Intermetallic/ceramic composites represent an interesting class of mat erials for high-temperature structural and functional applications. Th ese materials can be prepared via high-energy milling of pure metals w ith Al2O3 as well as of aluminum with metal oxides, During subsequent compaction via pressureless sintering, the components react to form de nse composites that consist of interpenetrating networks of the cerami c and intermetallic phases. Microstructural investigations, mechanical properties, and resistivity and wear resistance measurements of selec ted composites are presented, Improved fracture toughness and bending strength, with respect to monolithic Al2O3, have been achieved.