Micromechanical modification induced by cyclic thermal stress on metal matrix composites for automotive applications

Cyclic thermal stresses induced in MMC component were reproduced through an innovative test apparatus. The modification induced and the residual properties of the specimens were then investigated through mechanical tests and fractographic analysis. The behaviour showed by this material seems to be interesting in some peculiar applications in the automotive industry, in order to obtain greatly lighter components with equal or better performance than traditional one.