Processing high-temperature refractory-metal silicide in-situ composites

High-temperature, refractory-metal, intermetallic, in-situ composites consist of high-strength, niobium-based silicides with a niobium-based metallic toughening phase. A variety of processing schemes have been used to generate these in-situ composites, including solidification and vapor phase processes. Secondary processing, such as forging and extrusion, has also been employed. These composites offer an excellent balance of high- and low-temperature mechanical properties with promising environmental resistance at temperature above 1,100 degrees C.