New Trends In The Processing And Characterization Of Metal And Ceramic Matrix Composites: From Macro- To Nano-scale Perspective

Abstract:

In recent years, the concept of “composite materials” has been revolving around a number of research projects and technological developments. This is because many scientists and technologists have recognized the essentials and the benefits behind this seminal concept. Accordingly, a countless number of research articles in the fields of metals and ceramics involve the term “composite”. And although it has to be recognized that there has been significant progress in many areas by the development of new composite materials, in many respects the concept has been exploited only partially or even more, used erroneously, because sometimes a simple mixture of materials has been referred to as a composite. The problem is not in making the mixture, but in the lack of distinguishing the matrix from the reinforcement or reinforcements, or in demonstrating what phase reinforces what other phase. Furthermore, with the advent of the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology, both terms have been combined to give place to a new class of materials named “nanocomposites”. The aim of this contribution is to review the essentials behind the concept of composite materials and highlight the recent developments in the processing and characterization of metal and ceramic matrix composites going from the macro- to the nanometric-scale. The goal is to consider materials for both, structural and functional applications, and a broad range of processing routes embracing solid, semi-solid, liquid and gas state routes, and including from the traditional to the most recent and advanced methods like powder metallurgy, stir casting, CVD/CVI, sol-gel, etc. Future perspectives for some of them are also outlined.

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