Process for the production of carbon fiber reinforced magnesium composite articles

Abstract

An improved process is provided for the formation of carbon fiber reinforced magnesium composite articles wherein substantially pure magnesium or magnesium alloys serve as the continuous matrix phase. A minor quantity of dispersed solid magnesium nitride sufficient to enhance the wettability of the carbon fiber reinforcement is provided in the molten magnesium containing metal when it is contacted with the carbon fiber reinforcement. The usual difficulties encountered when the production of such a composite article is attempted resulting from the inherent poor wettability of the carbon fibers by molten magnesium containing metal effectively are eliminated. The resulting composite article exhibits improved properties resulting from a more complete infiltration of the carbon fibers by the molten magnesium containing metal prior to solidification, and better adhesion between the fiber and metal.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.