Methodology to design the interfaces in SiC/Al composites

A methodology to control interfacial microstructures, while suppressing for mation of Al4C3 in wrought Al alloy composites reinforced with SiC, was dem onstrated. Thermodynamic calculations were carried out to elucidate how one can select process parameters in terms of alloy composition and fabricatio n temperature to obtain intended interfaces. Experimental verifications wer e conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission elect ron microscopy (TEM) to validate calculated results. The reaction mechanism s for forming various interfaces were identified both theoretically and exp erimentally. Evaluations of the interfacial bonding strengths and interfaci al stability at elevated temperatures were also carried out for various int erface types.