Abstract: A manufacturing method for producing metal matrix composite (MMC) sheets without intermediate process losses associated with extrusion and rolling edge cracks. The method results in theoretical sheet yield rates from the initial MMC billet of up to 100%, compared to 30 to 60% yield rates for prior-art manufacturing processes. The methods in this invention comprise the following processes: (a) preparing a MMC powder mixture; (b) preparing a frame and a billet consolidation tool; (c) loading and compacting the MMC mixture to form a framed MMC compact; (d) consolidation of the framed MMC compact to form a framed MMC billet; (e) preparing the framed billet to be a framed roll-preform; and (e) rolling the framed roll-preform to MMC sheet.

Abstract: A simple method to produce Aluminum Metal Matrix Nanocomposite with 2 to 35 volume percent of nano Al2O3 reinforcement phase without adding nano Al2O3 particles in a direct step of the metal matrix. The initial necessary material is an aluminum powder with nanoscale surface oxide. The volume percent of Al2O3 is determined by the particle size distribution and the thickness of the Al2O3 layer. The Al2O3 surface layers or shells are broken up and are uniformly distributed throughout the nanocomposite after the powder consolidation into billet and the hot and/or cold metal working of the billet.

Abstract: A three-phase nanocomposite that comprises about 0.5 to 10 vol % nano-scale aluminum oxide particles and about 1 to 45% high modulus ceramic particles and an aluminum alloy matrix. The nano phase is to enhance nanocomposite strength and the modulus phase is to enhance the specific modulus of the resulting nanocomposite.