Composite structure with NbTiAlHfCrV or NbTiAlHfCrVZrC allow matrix and niobium base metal reinforcement

Abstract

Composite structures having a higher density, stronger reinforcing niobium based alloy embedded within a lower density, lower strength niobium based alloy are provided. The matrix is preferably an alloy having a niobium and titanium base according to the expressions: Nb.sub.balance -Ti.sub.27-40.5 -Al.sub.4.5-10.5 -Hf.sub.1.5-5.5 -Cr.sub.4.5-7.9 -V.sub.0-6, or Nb.sub.balance -Ti.sub.27-40.5 -Al.sub.4.5-10.5 -Hf.sub.1.5-5.5 -Cr.sub.4.5-7.9 -V.sub.0-6 -Zr.sub.0-1 C.sub.0-0.5. The reinforcement may be in the form of strands of the higher strength, higher temperature niobium based alloy. The same crystal form is present in both the matrix and the reinforcement and is specifically body centered cubic crystal form.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.