Small punch testing for assessing the tensile strength of gradient AlNi-SiC composites

The versatility of the shear punch test (SPT) was considered as an alternative for assessing the tensile properties of Al/Ni-SiC gradient composites fabricated by infiltration of liquid aluminum into coated ceramics. Tensile strength values of the order of 220 to 250 MPa were obtained. The nature of the shear-fractured surfaces was irregular for the composite specimens, with shear failure over most of the surfaces but with some tensile failure at the margins. The substantial accumulation of NiAl3 in the upper section specimen resulted in a higher strength and brittleness of the matrix compared to the low nickel content matrix sections. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.