| Abstract Scope |
Characterization of composite materials is often conducted by mechanical testing followed by laborious cross-section, characterization, etc. X-ray tomography provides a wonderful means of characterization damage in composites non-destructively. In this talk, we report on the critical link between microstructure and deformation behavior, by using a three-dimensional (3D) virtual microstructure obtained by x-ray synchrotron tomography, as well as focused ion beam imaging. The approach involves capturing the microstructure by in situ thermal and mechanical cycling in an x-ray synchrotron, followed by x-ray tomography and image analysis, and 3D reconstruction of the microstructure. We present results on thermal cycling and mechanical fatigue of SiC particle reinforced Al alloy matrix composites. In particular, the evolution of damage in the form of particle fracture, interfacial debonding and crack deflection, and void growth will be described. Characterization and in situ testing results in nanolaminate Al/SiC composites will also be presented. |