Cermet is a hard, lightweight material consisting of metallic and ceramic components. It is commonly used in aerospace and military technologies due to its high resistance to wear, corrosion and heat. The word "cermet" is pronounced as /ˈsərmɛt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "c" is pronounced as a /s/ sound because it precedes the "e" which is pronounced as /ɛ/. The "er" is pronounced as a schwa sound /ə/, and the "met" is pronounced with a hard /mɛt/ at the end.
Cermet is a noun that refers to a composite material made up of a mixture of ceramic and metal elements. The word itself is a blend of the words "ceramic" and "metal." Cermet materials are generally formed by combining ceramic powders, such as alumina (Al2O3) or titanium dioxide (TiO2), with a metal binder, commonly nickel (Ni) or cobalt (Co). These materials are then processed through various techniques, including powder metallurgy and sintering, to create a solid and well-bonded composite structure.
Cermets possess a unique combination of properties that make them useful in a variety of applications. The presence of ceramic components provides excellent wear resistance, hardness, and thermal stability, while the metal binder enhances toughness, ductility, and electrical conductivity. This combination of properties makes cermet materials suitable for cutting tools, ball bearings, resistance wires, high temperature coatings, and electrical contact applications. They can be used in high-speed machining, steel cutting, and aerospace industries, among others.
The development and optimization of cermet materials have been driven by the need to improve the performance and efficiency of engineering components. Cermets offer a balance between the desirable characteristics of ceramics and metals, allowing for improved functionality and enhanced durability. Researchers continue to explore new compositions and processing techniques to further expand the range of applications and improve the overall performance of cermets.
The word "cermet" is derived from a combination of two words: "ceramic" and "metals". The first part, "ceramic", refers to any non-metallic, inorganic material that is made by the action of heat. The second part, "metals", refers to the class of elements that are typically characterized by their shiny appearance, malleability, and good conductivity of heat and electricity.
"Cermet" was coined to describe a composite material that is composed of both ceramic and metal components. It was first established in the early 20th century and has been widely used in various fields, such as metallurgy, engineering, and electronics, due to its unique combination of properties from both ceramics and metals.