REINFORCEMENT OF NICKEL CHROMIUM ALLOYS WITH SAPPHIRE WHISKERS

Abstract : A program of research was conducted to secure a refractory metal-alumina single crystal fiber composite having high fiber loading (about 30 v/o) and exhibiting high strength reinforcement of iron or nichrome by inclusion of additives to the system prior to and during the fusion formation of the composite. Additives have been presented as claddings on the fiber, as inclusions in the metal matrix, as special atmospheres during the melting of the metal phase and as oxide reactive additives serving as fluxing agents. Vacuum metallizing of the fibers prior to their inclusion in composite showed considerable promise for formiiing a homogeneous ingot by a method of hot pressing. (Author)