摘要 |
Disclosed are reinforced metal matrix composites and methods of shaping powd er materials to form such composites. Articles of manufacture are formed in layers by a laser fabrication process. In the process, powder is melted and cooled to form successive layers of a discontinuously reinforced metal matri x. The matrix exhibits fine grain structure with enhanced properties over the unreinforced metal, including higher tensile modulus, higher strength, and greater hardness. In some preferred embodiments, an in-situ alloy powder, a powder metallurgy blend, or independently provided powders are reinforced wi th boron and/or carbon to form the composite.
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