European Networks Focus on Advanced Materials
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European Networks Focus on Advanced Materials The European Networks on Advanced Materials were established in 1987 to enhance scientific and technical coopération between research teams from différent countries. With the assistance of industrial and public institutions and with the support of the Council of Europe and the Commission of the European Communities, the European Materials Research Society is continuing to develop thèse networks. Eleven networks hâve established programs, and three are in the initial stages of development (see Table). This article is part of a continuing séries that focuses on the philosophies, aims and activities of the separate networks as described by their chairmen. Featured this month is Network 10 on Pressure Casting and Métal Matrix Composites. A brochure detailing ail the networks is available from: P. Siffert, Chairman, European Materials Research Society, Centre de Recherches Nucléaires, 23, rue de Loess, F-67037, Strasbourg, France; téléphone 88 28 65 43; fax 88 28 09 90.
Network 10—Pressure Casting and Métal Matrix Composites Chairman: G. A. Chadwick, University of Southampton, United Kingdom. For many years, métal matrix composites hâve held the promise of improved mechanical properties of engineering structures. However, it is only within the last five years or so that métal matrix composites hâve been produced on a commercial scale for volume production. The most successful route of manufacture to date has been by squeeze casting, a process currently used industrially in several European countries, although other processes such as low pressure infiltration and spray codeposition are being used. Both aluminum and magnésium alloys are being studied as matrix phases; and graphite, alumina, silicon carbide and steel wires are being used as the reinforcement phases. Remarkable properties can be achieved with métal matrix composites. Extremely high moduli of elasticity are attainable with the use of stiff nonmetallic fibers, and extraordinary wear résistance is attainable with particulate reinforced composites. It has been shown that the fatigue behavior of conventional metallic materials can be improved by orders of magnitude when
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métal matrix composites are used. Similarly, the high température strength of métal matrix composites can be far superior to that of the unreinforced alloys. Known improvements in mechanical properties of métal matrix composites are allowing significant design changes which lead to guaranteed longer lifetimes and higher efficiencies of the engineering materials and the machines in which they operate in the aerospace, automotive and gênerai engineering industries. Network 10 is exploring ways of stimulating collaborative research across a broad front of métal matrix composite production techniques so that the benefits of this new breed of engineering materials will be available to and utilized by European industry with significant advantages. Production routes other than pressure casting are also being reviewed and a collat
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