Control of the reaction at the fibre-matrix interface in a Cu/SiC metal matrix composite by modifying the matrix with 2.5 wt.% Fe

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) of Cu/SiC can be produced directly by hot isostatic pressing (HIP) by eliminating the reaction at the fibre-matrix interface via small additions of Fe. No further heat treatment is required if the HIP is performed at about 925 K for approximately 7.2 × 103 s at a pressure of 100 MPa. The interface resulting from the application of the processing technique is almost perfect. Without Fe addition a reaction at the fibre-matrix interface was observed, despite the high temperatures and extended times used. The effect of high temperatures on the quality of the interface has been investigated and it seems that an MMC based on Cu/SiC alloyed with Fe can be exposed in use to the temperature range 870–1135 K. Exposure of the Cu/Fe/SiC composite for extended times at 1135 K or above is detrimental because of interface reactions.