Laminated metal matrix composites of ultra-high carbon steel-brass and Al-Al/SiC: Processing and properties. Revision 1

We have fabricated laminated metal composites of (1) ultrahigh carbon steel (1.8%C) and brass (70Cu-30Zn), and (2) aluminum 5182 and aluminum 6061 with 25 vol.% SiCp. The laminates were prepared by hot pressing alternating layers of the component materials in an argon gas atmosphere. The steel was thermo-mechanically processed to produce a fine grained microstructure that exhibited superplasticity. The brass and aluminum materials were obtained from commercial sources and used in the as-received condition. Laminates with different numbers of layers and layer thickness were made. The compressive stress and strain rate were measured during hot pressing, and material flow behavior in the UHCS-brass laminate was found to be rate-controlled by the stronger component rather than by the softer one (brass). Material flow behavior was more complicated in the Al-laminate. Tensile and fracture behavior were determined by tensile tests and by chevron notched fracture toughness tests. Details of processing, microstructure and initial results of mechanical property tests of these laminates are discussed.