Processing of Terfenol-D alloy based magnetostrictive composites by dynamic compaction

Composites of Terfenol-D with metal binders were produced by explosive compaction. Compacts produced from powders prepared this way had a soft phase and intimate contact and bonding between particles are achieved. M/sub s//volume follows the expected trend based on the separate M/sub s//volume values of the constituents added. Magnetostriction of compacts made from mixture of Cu coated terfenol-D powder and Cu powder at a compressive stress of about 18 MPa were 110/spl times/10/sup -6/ and 195/spl times/ 10/sup -6/ prior to and after stress relief anneal at 350/spl deg/C. This value is about 18% of that obtained with Terfenol-D. Magnetic alignment of the powder during compaction can increase this to levels obtained in Terfenol-D-polymer composites. These composites had Young's moduli values in the range of 33-36 GPa and were strong and tough enough to withstand machining operation.