Abstract: This invention relates to an arc erosion-resistant composite material and methods for its manufacture and, more specifically, composite arc erosion resistant materials useful as electrodes in spark plug and jet engine igniters to promote longer useful life. An arc resistant material in particulate form is dispersed throughout a lower melting matrix metal clad in a tube of nickel or nickel alloy, and then worked to a very small outside diameter, after which the composite may be cut to provide electrode elements. Ruthenium and iridium, and their alloys comprise the arc erosion resistant material. Suitable matrix metals comprise silver, gold, copper, nickel, and palladium.