B. Doud, Powdermet Inc., Euclid, OH
S-Comp is a family of structural syntactic metal-composites with superior strength to weight ratios, better formability, and lower cost compared to honeycomb and integrally stiffened panel alternatives. S-Comp materials have a structure closely approximating that of bone or wood, and have exceptional strength-to-weight ratios and energy absorption capabilities. S-Comp’s unique structure is a space-filling array of hollow reinforcements or microballoons, embedded in a metal matrix. These microballoons can be SLS glass, E-glass, mullite, alumina, SiC, or carbon, depending upon the metal matrix density and properties desired. S-Comp densities are typically 30-70% of the pure metal alloy. Modulus typically ranges from 1/4 to 1/2 that of the parent metal alloy, while mechanical properties can be 50-75% of the parent material. S-Comp materials shine in their ability to absorb high impact energies whether it be from large body impact, ballistics, blade fragments, or collisions. Their higher initial crushing strength make them ideal in situations where only high energy threats are of concern allowing smaller impacts to be deflected with no structural deformation while large threatening impacts will be effectively absorbed. Static and Dynamic properties of both titanium and aluminum syntactic composites will be presented along with potential applications. <!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--> <!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]-->
Summary: Metallic syntactic composite structures are light weight structurally load bearing and have exceptional energy absorbing characteristics. Static and dynamic properties of aluminum and titanium syntactic composites will be presented along with potential applications.
