CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS IN FIBER-REINFORCED COMPOSITES
Abstract
A review of recent progress in composite technology is presented with primary emphasis on fiber-reinforced metal-matrix composites. A brief discussion of the development of high strength, high modulus, low density filaments is included. Current efforts on plastic and ceramic matrix composites is considered for comparative purposes. Filament-matrix compatibility is identified as the major limiting factor in high temperature fabrication and utilization of metal-matrix composites. Some approaches to the solution of this compatibility problem are discussed. The various fabrication methods are reviewed and the mechanical behavior of metal-matrix composites is illustrated with a boron-reinforced aluminum system. The method taken to expedite the development of advanced composites as practical engineering structures is discussed. This approach has been to integrate the efforts of materials engineers, designers, and fabricators into a single team. This team concept is illustrated by showing the progress of the development of fiber-reinforced plastic aerospace structures. Fabrication requirements show a definite need for automated tape layup techniques. Current program efforts indicate that theoretically weight can be reduced by using composite structures. Sometimes in practical applications even greater weight savings can be realized.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0667527
Entities
People
- C. T. Lynch
- J. A. Snide
- L. D. Whipple
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory