This grant supports an international symposium on Commonalty of Phenomena in High Performance Composites at Rosemont, Illinois, October 2-6, 1994. The objective of this symposium is to examine the state of our understanding in processing, microstructure, and properties of high performance composites. Composite materials are very diverse: different matrix materials different reinforcements, different forms of reinforcements (fibers, whiskers, particles), interfacial coatings, different arrangements and distribution of reinforcements in a given matrix, etc. Notwithstanding such diversity, there is a myriad of concepts, processes, methodologies of evaluation and characterization that cut across different types of composites. Researchers working in this areas with different composites (polymeric, metallic, intermetallic and ceramic matrix composites will attend. Commonalty of phenomena in different types of composites, such as the role of the matrix microstructure, interface, toughening mechanisms, and fracture behavior are discussed. The technical papers will be peer-reviewed and published. Composite materials have potential applications as structural components in a wide variety of industrial components. Their use has been limited by high cost and processing difficulties. This conference provides timely coverage of the latest research concerning these materials.
