Abstract: A lanthanum chromite ceramic powder consisting essentially of 1 mol of LaCr.sub.1-x M.sub.x O.sub.3, where M is a divalent metal selected from the group of zinc, copper and mixtures thereof and x ranges from about 0.02 to 0.2, y mols of B.sub.2 O.sub.3, where y ranges from 0.0005 to 0.04, and z mols of La.sub.2 O.sub.3, where the ratio z/y ranges from 1 to 3, the powder is sintered to high density by firing a compact thereof at a temperature of about 1400.degree. C. in air or other atmosphere, and is particularly suited for use as interconnect material for solid oxide fuel cells.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved, complex composite article of manufacture which comprises a network of high strength fibers having a tensile modulus of at least about 160 grams/denier and a tenacity of at least about 7 g/denier. An elastomeric matrix material substantially coats each of the individual fibers, and has a tensile modulus of less than about 6,000 psi, measured at 25.degree. C. The fibers in the matrix are provided with at least one additional rigid layer on a major surface of the fibers in the matrix to produce a rigid complex composite. Composites of this construction have improved resistance to environmental hazards, improved impact resistance, and are unexpectedly effective as ballistic resistant articles such as armor or helmets.