Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Functionally Graded AlSi/MWCNT Composite Cylinders

Abstract

Experimental fabrication of functionally graded Aluminum Silicon-carbon nanotubes (AlSi-MWCNT) reinforcement is significantly less, despite substantial theoretical interest. Many studies focused on axially layered functionally graded material because of ease of fabrication. Full advantage of AlSi-MWCNT functionally graded material only is taken when designed to the various shapes. In this research work, functionally graded cylinders were produced with 2wt% MWCNT at the outer surface to provide a complex and wear-resistant surface. The interior surface is soft with AlSi to provide elasticity. FGM1 sample indicates 112% and 11% increase in maximum tensile strength compared to AlSi and AlSi-MWCNT1wt%. FGM1 sample shows a 37% increase in elongation percentage compared to the AlSi-MWCNT1wt% composite. Test samples showing the typical nature of barrelling. FGM1 sample exhibits compressive strength of 237MPa, exceeding by 245% that of AlSi and by 3.5% that of AlSi-MWCNT1wt%. Three samples consider for each test. Hardness value ranges from 65HV at the core to 115HV at the outer surface. Hardness value Exceeds 56% in the outer layer compared to an inner region of FGM2.There is a proper bond between the layers, and the same demonstrate with properties of tensile, compressive, and hardness. OM with porosity, SEM with EDX evaluates to predict structural gradation in FGM cylinder. KEYWORDS: Aluminum silicon (AlSi) alloy; Functionally graded materials(FGM); Multi wall carbon nano tubes (MWCNT); Nano-composites; Thermo-mechanical processing