Editing Metal matrix composite (section)

=== Reinforcement ===
The reinforcement material is embedded into a matrix. The reinforcement does not always serve a purely structural task (reinforcing the compound), but is also used to change physical properties such as [[wear resistance]], [[friction]] coefficient, or [[thermal conductivity]]. The reinforcement can be either continuous or discontinuous. Discontinuous MMCs can be [[isotropic]] and can be worked with standard metalworking techniques, such as extrusion, forging, or rolling. In addition, they may be machined using conventional techniques, but commonly would need the use of polycrystalline diamond tooling (PCD).

Continuous reinforcement uses monofilament wires or fibers such as [[carbon (fiber)|carbon fiber]] or [[silicon carbide]]. Because the fibers are embedded into the matrix in a certain direction, the result is an [[anisotropic]] structure in which the alignment of the material affects its strength. One of the first MMCs used [[boron]] filament as reinforcement. Discontinuous reinforcement uses [[Monocrystalline whisker|"whiskers"]], short fibers, or particles. The most common reinforcing materials in this category are [[alumina]] and [[silicon carbide]].<ref>''Materials science and Engineering, an introduction''. William D. Callister Jr, 7th Ed, Wiley and sons publishing</ref>