FIBER AND INTERFACE FRACTURE IN SINGLE-CRYSTAL ALUMINUM-SIC FIBER COMPOSITES

Model metal-matrix composite tensile specimens, each containing a single SiC fiber in a single crystal of pure Al, were grown using a modified Bridgman method at two growth rates and with various fiber surface treatments in order to study their effect on fiber and interface strength. Using the load drops in tensile tests, we measured both fiber and interface strength in situ. Acoustic emission (AE) was monitored to assist in determining the failure mechanisms. Both the fiber surface treatment and growth rate were found to significantly affect the fiber and interface strength. Fibers with carbon-rich outer surfaces had higher fiber strengths but lower interfacial strengths than untreated fibers. These results are discussed in terms of failure mechanisms and interfacial reactions occurring during growth of the composites.