Development and implementation of a technology for introducing reinforcement into aluminum matrix composite

Abstract

Abstract In this study, a new method for introducing reinforcement was developed and used in stir casting to fabricate aluminum matrix composites. Different reinforcements (microparticle SiC and nanofiber Al2O3) were incorporated into the technical aluminum AD0 (1050 ISO) alunimum alloy by a mechanical stirrer and then cylindrical specimens were cast. The microstructural characterization of the composite samples showed grain refinement of aluminum matrix with the introduction of reinforcement. The effects of reinforcement on the mechanical properties and impact behavior of the composites were investigated. Based on experiments, it was revealed that the presence of Al2O3 nanofiber reinforcement led to improvement in hardness. This was due to introduction of reinforcement and grain refinement of aluminum matrix. Studies on the fracture surfaces revealed that AMC with reinforcement is brittle, but in the case of nanofibers fillers, tough component was also present, which eliminated the risk of brittle fracture.