Corrosion and Wear Behaviour of Metal Matrix Composites

Metal matrix composite (MMC) has several attractive characteristics (low coefficient of thermal expansion, lightweight, better abrasion, high strength-to-weight ratio, superior stiffness, thermal stability, etc.), when compared with monolithic materials. Due to these charming characteristics, MMC materials have received wide scope in distinct industries (marine, aerospace, defence, mineral processing industry, automotive, electronic, and recreation industries, etc.). But, owing to the requirement of higher ductility and brittleness in the form of reinforcement and matrix, there is a need to improve the properties of composite (MMC) that will fulfil the requirement of the engineers. In addition, MMCs are typically more prone to corrosion and wear as compared to their monolithic matrix alloys. Thus, the study of corrosion and wear behaviour of distinct composites such as Al/SiC etc. are highly important for better corrosion resistance for distinct applications. This chapter provides an overview of the corrosion and wear behaviour of MMCs and applications.

Keywords: Applications of MMCs, Classification, Corrosion, Historical development, Metal matrix composite, Material properties.