Abstract: Metallic matrix composites are synthesized by mixing a first reactant, a second reactant and a nucleator compound to obtain a reaction mixture, and heating the reaction mixture to an auto-activation temperature to initiate a self-propagating high-temperature synthesis reaction between the first and second reactants. The metallic matrix composite can include a metallic matrix and an in situ formed reinforcement. The reinforcement can be formed of discrete particles substantially uniformly dispersed within the metallic matrix. Each of the particles can have a reinforcement constituent disposed about a core formed of the nucleator compound.

Abstract: Articles are manufactured using self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) reactions. Particulates including reactants can be blended to form a particulate blend. The particulate blend can be preformed. The preform article can be heated to a pre-heat temperature being below an auto-activation temperature and above a minimum compression activated synthesis temperature. Compressive stress can be exerted on the preform article at the pre-heat temperature to initiate the SHS reaction between the reactants and thereby form a product metallic compound. At approximately peak temperature, a flow stress of the product metallic compound can be exceeded to substantially reduce porosity and thereby form a shaped substantially dense article.

Abstract: Metallic matrix composites include a high strength titanium aluminide alloy matrix and an in situ formed aluminum oxide reinforcement. The atomic percentage of aluminum in the titanium aluminide alloy matrix can vary from 40% to 48%. Included are methods of making the metallic matrix composites, in particular, through the performance of an exothermic chemical reaction. The metallic matrix composites can exhibit low porosity.

Abstract: Metallic matrix composites are synthesized by mixing a first reactant, a second reactant and a nucleator compound to obtain a reaction mixture, and heating the reaction mixture to an auto-activation temperature to initiate a self-propagating high-temperature synthesis reaction between the first and second reactants. The metallic matrix composite can include a metallic matrix and an in situ formed reinforcement. The reinforcement can be formed of discrete particles substantially uniformly dispersed within the metallic matrix. Each of the particles can have a reinforcement constituent disposed about a core formed of the nucleator compound.