RIGIDIZED FILLER MATERIALS FOR METAL MATRIX COMPOSITES

摘要

The present invention relates to a novel process for forming metal matrix composite bodies. Specifically, in a particularly preferred embodiment for making metal matrix composite bodies by a spontaneous infiltration technique, an infiltration enhancer and/or an infiltration enhancer precursor and/or an infiltrating atmosphere are in communication with a rigidized filler material or a rigidized preform (58), at least at some point during the process, which permits molten matrix metal to spontaneously infiltrate the rigidized filler material or rigidized preform. Such spontaneous infiltration occurs without the requirement for the application of any pressure or vacuum.