Abstract: A lightweight, high strength structure is described where a core material has a first and second metal matrix composite layer on surfaces of the core material. A sandwich type structure may be formed. The core material may be a solid material, a foam, a honeycomb structure, or may be a channeled material. The metal matrix composite layers may include fiber reinforced metal matrix composites.

Abstract: The present invention provides for assemblies comprising metal matrix composite bars where the bars only intermittently have mutual contact. Minimally two bars of metal matrix composite are joined, for example by lap joints, or by the use of incorporated tabs and slots or over-lapping slots, at areas of mutual contact to form the assemblies. The metal matrix composite assemblies of the present invention may be readily assembled to provide structures, supports, or sub-assemblies, and the like, that may exhibit high strength and stiffness coupled with relatively low mass. Additionally, such assemblies may withstand exposure to elevated temperatures higher than can be tolerated by polymeric composites. Such assemblies are expected to be particularly suitable for lightweight, stiff support structures for space booms, satellite structures, mirror backings, solar panel supports, wall reinforcement, and the like.

Abstract: A lightweight, high strength structure is described where a core material has a first and second metal matrix composite layer on surfaces of the core material. A sandwich type structure may be formed. The core material may be a solid material, a foam, a honeycomb structure, or may be a channeled material. The metal matrix composite layers may include fiber reinforced metal matrix composites.

Abstract: The present invention provides for assemblies comprising metal matrix composite bars where the bars only intermittently have mutual contact. Minimally two bars of metal matrix composite are joined, for example, by lap joints, or by the use of incorporated tabs and slots or over-lapping slots, at areas of mutual contact to form the assemblies. The metal matrix composite assemblies of the present invention may be readily assembled to provide structures, supports, or sub-assemblies, and the like, that may exhibit high strength and stiffness coupled with relatively low mass. Additionally, such assemblies may withstand exposure to elevated temperatures higher than can be tolerated by polymeric composites. Such assemblies are expected to be particularly suitable for lightweight, stiff support structures for space booms, satellite structures, mirror backings, solar panel supports, wall reinforcement, and the like.

Abstract: A rigid, non-transparent photoluminescent tile having photoluminescent material exposed on a top surface of the tile, wherein the photoluminescent material, including photoluminescent particles and chips, illuminates when the ambient light is removed.

Abstract: A photoluminescent tile composition made of a tile base and a matrix of photoluminescent material disbursed throughout the tile base. The tile base includes a non-transparent mineral filler. The photoluminescent material located on exposed surfaces absorb and release light. The same manufacturing methods and equipment used to manufacture conventional floor tile can be used to manufacture floor tiles from the tile composition.

Abstract: A photoluminescent tile composition made of a tile base and a matrix of photoluminescent material disbursed throughout the tile base. The tile base includes a non-transparent mineral filler. The photoluminescent material located on exposed surfaces absorb and release light. The same manufacturing methods and equipment used to manufacture conventional floor tile can be used to manufacture floor tiles from the tile composition.

Abstract: A photoluminescent tile composition made of a tile base and a matrix of photoluminescent material disbursed throughout the tile base. The tile base includes a non-transparent mineral filler. The photoluminescent material located on exposed surfaces absorb and release light. The same manufacturing methods and equipment used to manufacture conventional floor tile can be used to manufacture floor tiles from the tile composition.

Abstract: A photoluminescent tile composition made of a tile base and a matrix of photoluminescent material disbursed throughout the tile base. The tile base includes a non-transparent mineral filler. The photoluminescent material located on exposed surfaces absorb and release light. The same manufacturing methods and equipment used to manufacture conventional floor tile can be used to manufacture floor tiles from the tile composition.