Hydrodynamic alignment of discontinuous fibers in a metal matrix

Abstract

Principles of hydrodynamics were applied to an electrolytic co-deposition process for the fabrication of aligned discontinuous fiber-metal matrix composites. High strength properties in a composite require control of fiber alignment, distribution, volumetric loading and strength. These requirements are considered theoretically and experimentally for two types of (plating) fluid flow: (a) laminar circular, or Couette flow, and (b) laminar, linear flow in a vertical channel. Behavior of the fiber-fluid systems could be adequately predicted. Both theoretical and practical extensions of the techniques developed are outlined. © 1969.