Cermet 7B – Group 4

What? A material consisting of processed ceramic particles bonded with metal, and used in high-strength and high- temperature applications. Also called ceramal.

A cermet is designed to have the properties of both a ceramic, such as high temperature resistance and hardness, and those of a metal, such as the ability to undergo plastic deformation.

The metallic elements used are nickel, molybdenum, and cobalt. cermets are usually less than 20% metal by volume.

Examples Cermets are used in the manufacturing of resistors, capacitors, and other electronic components which may experience high temperatures.

Cermets in Transportation Ceramic parts have been used in conjunction with metal parts as friction materials for brakes and clutches.

Other Applications The US Army and the British Army have also had extensive research in the development of cermets. These include the development of lightweight ceramic projectile proof armor for soldiers and also Chobham armor.

Cermets are also used in machining on cutting tools. Cermet has also been researched for benefits in the storage of nuclear waste.