Micromechanical modification induced by cyclic thermal stress on metal matrix composites for automotive applications

Cyclic thermal stresses induced in MMC component were reproduced through an innovative test apparatus. The modification induced and the residual prope rties of the specimens were then investigated through mechanical tests and fractographic analysis. The behaviour showed by this material seems to be i nteresting in some peculiar applications in the automotive industry, in ord er to obtain greatly lighter components with equal or better performance th an traditional one. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.