Abstract
The availability as well as the demand for reinforcing compounds for metal matrix composites is very extensive. The selection depends on the condition of the matrix, type of processing of the composite material and the demands (temperature, corrosion, stress etc.). The following requirements apply in general:
-low density,
-mechanical compatibility (a thermal expansion coefficient which is low but adapted to the matrix)
-chemical compatibility, which leads to optimal adhesion between matrix and reinforcement, but does not lead to corrosion problems)
-thermal stability,
-high Young’s modulus,
-high compression and tensile strength,
-good processability,
-low costs.
These demands can be almost exclusively fulfilled by non-metal inorganic reinforcement components.
