Patent ID: 6257312
Filing Date: 2001-07-10
Classification: C22C,H01L

Abstract:
A method for preparing a metal matrix composite material, comprising the steps of:providing an initial composite material havinga plurality of particles with an average particle size, anda molten metal matrix, wherein the initial composite material has a particle volume fraction of at least about 5 percent;providing a container having an exit channel, and a porous element within the exit channel, the porous element having an average pore size opening such that, under a pressure differential, molten matrix metal but no substantial amount of particles pass through the porous element;placing the initial composite material into the container in contact with the porous element; andcreating a pressure differential in the initial composite material across the porous element sufficient to cause some of the matrix metal to flow through the porous element, leaving a concentrated composite material in the container, wherein the step of creating a pressure differential is continued for a time sufficient that the concentrated composite material is a self-supporting mass of particles in a liquid metal matrix material.