Glass matrix composites, dispersion-reinforced

The development of dispersion reinforced glass matrix composites with improved mechanical properties for structural applications was first reported in 1962 [1]. Since then, hundreds of composite systems have been developed by incorporating a great variety of... 

One important field of application for dispersion-reinforced glass matrix composites is as biomaterials for implants and in orthopaedics. Bioactive sihcate and phosphate glasses and glass-ceramics are toughened by incorporating biocompatible second phases, for example titanium, silver or stainless steel particles or chopped fibres [20,24,54,76,77]. 

Alternative fabrication procedures for dispersion-reinforced glass matrix composites via wet routes have been developed such as slip and tape casting [117,118], as well as colloidal processing and sol-gel techniques [74]. 

The following factors have been identified as important in determining the fracture strength and fracture toughness values of dispersion-reinforced glass matrix composites ... 

A variety of mechanisms related to the crack/inclusion interaction can be exploited to increase the toughness of dispersion-reinforced glass matrix composites. In fact, toughening rather than strengthening has frequently been the goal when developing this kind of composite systems. Toughening mechanisms are also affected by the presence of residual stresses in the material. 

Boccaccini [113,114] has reviewed the dispersion reinforcement of glass matrix composite materials. The thermal shock resistance of glass can be improved by the addition of aluminum titanate (Al2Ti05) particles [115,116]. 

Boccaccini AR, Glass matrix composite materials with dispersion reinforcement, a review. Part 1, Historical development and fabrication techniques, Verre, 5(2), 3-14, 1999. 

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