Abstract: A polymer-reinforced metal matrix composite is disclosed which is formed by lending metal particles and polymer particles to form a homogeneous powder blend, and consolidating the powder blend to form a unitary mass. The unitary mass is then plastically deformed such as by extrusion in the presence of heat so as to cause an elongation thereof, whereby the metal particles form a matrix and the polymer particles form elongated filaments uniformly dispersed throughout the matrix and aligned in the direction of elongation of the unitary mass. An aluminum matrix reinforced with polyether-etherketone is shown to have enhanced specific strength and modulus over those of the aluminum alone.

Abstract: An aluminum-titanium alloy and a process of making it, the alloy consisting ssentially of aluminum, 4-6 wt. % titanium, 1-2 wt. % carbon, and 0.1-0.2 wt % oxygen. The alloy is an aluminum matrix supersaturated with titanium, and having throughout a fine, homogeneous dispersion of Al.sub.3 Ti particles. It is fine grained and has grain boundary dispersoids of carbides and oxides, predominantly of aluminum. An aluminum-titanium melt is rapidly solidified and then mechanically alloyed in the presence of a carbon-bearing agent. The resulting powder is degassed and hot consolidated to form articles which exhibit high strength, ductility, and creep resistance at temperatures greater than 200.degree. C.