Interface engineering of carbon fiber reinforced Mg-Al alloys

Metal matrix composites of the system C-fiber/Mg-matrix enable the outstand ing combination of the high strength and elastic modulus of carbon fibers a nd the low density of both the carbon fiber and the magnesium matrix In str uctural metallic materials. However, the efficiency of the fiber reinforcem ent depends mainly on fire characteristics of the fiber/matrix interlayers. Optimized materials can be achieved only by an appropriate interface desig n. The interfacial bonding can be adjusted by modifications of both the mat rix composition and the fiber surface. Two strategies are reviewed in this paper: Firstly, to control the fiber/matrix reactivity by appropriate chemi cal and structural properties of the partners. Secondly, to coat the carbon fibers with a suitable material prior to the composite fabrication.