A composite material made by combining ceramic and metal components, prized for high heat resistance and strength in extreme environments.
A portmanteau blending 'ceramic' and 'metal,' coined in the mid-20th century as composite materials technology advanced. The term emerged from materials science research during the aerospace industry's expansion.
Cermets are used in jet engines and rocket nozzles because they can withstand temperatures that would melt pure metals alone—it's like teamwork between atoms, where ceramics handle the heat and metals provide the flexibility.
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