The Mechanical Properties of Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite (AlMMCs) Reinforced with Ni and SiCp

Abstract

Abstract This investigation studies the effects of nickel (Ni) particles combined with silicon carbide (SiCp) particles on the microstructural and mechanical properties of aluminium(Al)-magnesium(Mg)-manganese(Mn) matrix alloys under different sintering temperatures. The Al-Mg-Mn-SiCp/Nip composite samples were produced via the powder metallurgy route. The sintering process was performed on a green compact of Al-Mg-Mn matrix/SiCp/ or Nip composites at 400 °C and 600 °C for 1.5 hours at a constant heating rate of 50 °C/min. The Al-Mg-Mn-SiCp/Nip samples were evaluated and characterised using a scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction. Additionally, the Al-Mg-Mn-SiCp/Nip samples were measured for Vickers hardness and compressive strength. The outcomes show that Al-Mg-Mn-5%SiCp-6%Nip gave the highest Vickers hardness. The results showed that the optimal sintering temperature performed on the Al-Mg-Mn-SiCp/Nip sample was 400 °C compared with 600 °C because the overall dissolution of alloying elements within the Al-matrix led to an enlargement of grains, thus, reducing their mechanical properties.