Thermomechanical and creep characterization of unidirectional SiC/Al composite

The thermomechanical and creep behavior of a unidirectional metal matrix composite, namely, silicon carbide/aluminum (SCS-2/6061 Al) was studied experimentally. Experimental methods were developed, adapted, and applied to the characterization of the metal matrix composite system. The unidirectional SiC/Al composite was characterized thermomechanically under longitudinal, transverse ami in-plane shear loading up to 399°C (750° F). The stress-strain curves of the composite in the longitudinal and transverse directions and the shear stress-strain curves were obtained at various temperatures. In addition, thermal strain curves as a function of temperature in the longitudinal and transverse directions were obtained. The composite was characterized by determining its moduli, strengths, and coefficients of thermal expansion at the various temperatures. The transverse creep characteristics of the unidirectional SiC/Al composite were also investigated at temperatures ranging from 204°C (400° F) to 288°C (550° F).