Strengthening of Al-4.5%Cu alloy with the addition of Silicon Carbide and Bamboo Leaf Ash

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to determine the use of BLA along with SiC as economical reinforcements to enhance the mechanical behavior of hybrid composite. The purpose of this research is the development of cost-effective aluminum hybrid metal matrix composites. Design/methodology/approach The present research work investigation evaluated the mechanical properties of Al-4.5%Cu alloy, Al-4.5Cu/10SiC, Al-4.5Cu/10SiC/2BLA and Al-4.5Cu/10SiC/4BLA composites by the Stir casting method. The fabricated composites were analyzed using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and hardness and tensile test. Findings The microstructure modification with the addition of reinforcement particles in the matrix alloy and clear interface in between matrix and particles are observed. The density of the composite increased with the addition of SiC and decreased with the addition of BLA in comparison with that of matrix alloy. The hardness and tensile strength of the single-reinforced composite and hybrid composites improved with the addition of reinforcement particles. The strengthening of composites was due to load-bearing capacity of reinforcement particles over the matrix alloy and increased dislocation density of composites materials. The tensile failure mechanism of the composites is reveled with SEM analysis. Practical implications The papers reports the development of cost-effective and light weight aluminum hybrid composites with remarkable enhancement in the mechanical and tribological properties with the addition of BLA as economical reinforcement along with SiC. Originality/value The density, hardness and tensile values of fabricated aluminium composites were presented in this paper for the use in the engineering applications where the weight and cost are consider as a primary factors.