Structural Characterization of Metal-Matrix Composites Using Computed Tomography Data

ARACOR proposes to develop image processing tools and integrate them into a software package running on UNIX workstations that can efficiently and quantitatively analyze computed tomography (CT) images of metal-matrix composites (MMC's). The software will provide numerical data to microstructural and structural models of performance. The Phase I effort will determine the relevant features to be modeled in metal-matrix composites, determine sensitivity of image processing tools to detect and quantify the relevant features in MMC's, and develop a conceptual design of a data analysis workstation for characterizing and quantifying MMC CT data. It is anticipated that a software system can be designed which will provide researchers with a user-friendly, efficient system to extract relevant features from CT data of MMC's and seamlessly integrate this data with existing modeling packages such as finite element (FE) and computer-aided design (CAD) software. The availability of such a software capability will transform CT from a qualitative tool to a powerful quantitative tool which can be used to test existing models, improve emerging models, and develop new models to predict the structural performance of aeropropulsion materials in complex, multivariable operating environments.