Variations in nanostructure and composition for controlling the interfacial properties of metal matrix composites and ceramic matrix composites

Interface properties are critical to the strength and toughness of metal matrix composites and ceramic matrix composites. These interfaces provide both diffusion barriers and load transfer functions. The nanostructure across the interface was varied to fulfill conflicting diffusion and load transfer demands. The deposition conditions developed allow nanostructure control of TiN fiber coatings. The TiN coating varied from a dense, diffusion-limiting layer to a columnar bond debond layer. TiN was deposited in a reel-to-reel, cylindrical magnetron coater. The fiber bias and gas flow rates were the dominant deposition parameters controlling the nanostructure. Nanostructure changes were examined after consolidation in a Ti matrix and additional heat treatments at 1000 °C.