Al2O3 Particle Erosion Induced Phase Transformation: Structure, Mechanical Property, and Impact Toughness of an SLM Al-10Si-Mg Alloy

Abstract

This study investigated the microstructure, mechanical properties, impact toughness, and erosion characteristics of Al-10Si-Mg alloy specimens manufactured using the selective laser melting (SLM) method with or without subsequent T6 heat treatment. Furthermore, the erosion phase transformation behavior of the test specimens was analyzed, and the effect of the degradation mechanism on the tensile mechanical properties and impact toughness of the SLM Al-10Si-Mg alloy specimens before and after particle erosion was compared. The experimental results indicated that the Al-10Si-Mg alloy subjected to T6 heat treatment has better erosion resistance than the as-fabricated material. The tensile strength and fracture toughness of both specimen groups decreased due to the formation of microcracks on the surface caused by particle erosion. Nevertheless, the erosion-induced silicon nanoparticle solid solution softens the Al matrix and improves the elongation of the SLM Al-10Si-Mg alloy.