Enhancing Metal-Matrix Composites Performance via Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) Process

Abstract

We have investigated a series of high performance metal-matrix composites (MMCs), in order to improve mechanical and thermal properties of such composites. To fabricate such composites, we have used spark plasma sintering (SPS) process. Using this processing, we would minimize or avoid some risks in damaging filler surfaces during processing. In this article, also introduced are various kinds of MMCs, metal/intermetallic laminate materials, fiber reinforced composites and particle dispersed heat dissipative materials. These composites have been fabricated using various methods, such as, vacuum hot pressing, diffusion bonding and metal infiltration, and their physical properties are shown and well documented. In the article, MMCs fabricated by our SPS method is compared to those fabricated by other fabrication methods. This review article leads to strong indications regarding fabrication techniques for making better MMCs.