PROCESS-DEVELOPMENTS FOR FABRICATION OF CAST METAL MATRIX PARTICULATE COMPOSITE - UNSOLVED PROBLEMS

The different processes for fabrication of cast metal matrix particulate composites (MMPC) are briefly outlined. Some of the problems in the processing of MMPC are structural defects like porosities, particle segregation and interfacial reactions. In addition there are several other problems like particle settling and clustering during remelting, proper methods of joining, appropriate strategy for scrap recycling etc. which are yet to be satisfactorily dealt with. The prospects for overcoming these problems are assessed.