Metal matrix composites (MMCs) of different composition were produced and
investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS)
analysis. Firstly unidirectionally reinforced MMCs were produced using two type
carbon fibre reinforcement and commercial purity aluminium matrix. In MMCs the
interface layer has significant effect on the mechanical properties of the composites
therefore need to be correctly explored. The investigations showed chemical
composition changes in the composites, especially at the interface layers. In the case
of carbon fibre reinforced composites Al4C3 phase was formed. The amount of Al4C3
depended on the temperature and the time at temperature of the composite during
production and on the quality of carbon fibres. As the second investigated MMC, SiC
fibre reinforced aluminium matrix composite wires were produced by continuous
pressure infiltration. In SiC reinforced MMC wires the effect of interface diffusion was
observed. After long term thermal ageing at 300°C alumina was formed and Si and Ti
of SiC fibres moved into the matrix. Finally, metal matrix syntactic foams were
manufactured which are particle-reinforced composites, but also known as porous
materials (foams), because they contain high amount of hollow ceramic
microspheres. Four type hollow spheres from different suppliers with different
chemical composition and mean diameters were used. In syntactic foams an
exchange reaction took place between the aluminium alloy matrix and the Si content
of ceramic inclusions. The reaction resulted in significant alumina formation
