TFP reinforced metal - one way to increase the specific strength

The integration of fibers, especially tailor fiber placement (TFP), in metal matrices offers one way to generate composite materials with increased specific strength compared to the unreinforced metal matrix. The TFP can be adapted according to the final load paths through the component and can be covered partially or fully with the metal. Following this approach load transfer elements can be built, transferring much load and having low mass. First fields of application are identified in building and automotive industry. This work includes the powder metallurgical manufacturing process using Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) technique, the characterization of the microstructure and the tensile test of different specimens (sintered copper, TFP (as received) and TFP (Cu covered) reinforced copper). Experimental result on 19.5 vol.% TFP (Cu covered) reinforced copper shows an increase of specific strength around a factor of 2.2 compared to pure copper.