Dispersion of ceramic powders into particulate superplastic Al-Li alloy

A new method for dispersing homogeneously fine ceramic powders into a particulate alloy matrix has been developed. The Al-Li matrix alloy, with controlled crystal grain size and shape, shows superplastic behaviour under certain conditions. The homogeneous dispersion of SiC in the matrix alloy was achieved by introducing the fine particles of filler along the grain boundaries within the alloy particles. This new compounding method yields a composite powder (i.e each particle itself is a composite) rather than a mixture of different components. 8 refs.