Metal Matrix Composites Synthesized with Laser-Based Additive Manufacturing

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMCs), with their unique property combinations, have the potential to enable disruptive capabilities for extreme environment applications that require high performance from materials. A Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) team successfully produced an aluminum-silicon carbide system with additive manufacturing (AM). The team also demonstrated the ability to grade the metal and ceramic three-dimensionally to form tailored material gradients. This effort merely scratches the surface of what is possible; future advances in AM materials development could result in materials with properties that are currently impossible to achieve with any other manufacturing process. These materials could benefit many applications.