The primary objective of this research was to investigate acoustic emission techniques for nondestructive evaluation of the integrity of boron-aluminum composite materials. The approach taken centered upon the development of acoustic signatures for the unidirectional composite laminae subjected to both biaxial and uniaxial tension states of stress. Acoustic signatures for biaxial states of stress were developed through implementation of the off-axis tensile coupon. Fiber orientations examined include 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 deg. Acoustic signatures also were obtained for uniaxial tension (0 deg) and transverse tension (90 deg) test specimen geometries. In addition to investigation of the acoustic properties of the boron-aluminum composite, a complete mechanical characterization was performed. Typical acoustic and mechanical characteristics for the boron-aluminum composites are presented.