The thermal plasma near-net-shape spray forming of Al composites

The vacuum-plasma-spraying technique presented in this article is suited to produce aluminum-matrix composites with a low coefficient of thermal expansion reinforced with fine ceramic particles, resulting in a uniform particle dispersion and bulk porosity of less than 1.5% in the as-sprayed condition. Plastic deformation of the plates followed by annealing resulting in significant increases in ultimate tensile strength, hardness, and elongation.