Processing high-temperature refractory-metal silicide in-situ composites

High-temperature, refractory-metal, intermetallic, in-situ composites consi st of high-strength, niobium-based silicides with a niobium-based metallic toughening phase. A variety of processing schemes have been used to generat e these in-situ composites, including solidification and vapor phase proces ses. Secondary processing, such as forging and extrusion, has also been emp loyed. These composites offer an excellent balance of high- and low-tempera ture mechanical properties with promising environmental resistance at tempe rature above 1,100 degrees C.