Mechanical Behavior of High Boron Content Al-B4C Metal Matrix Composites at Elevated Temperatures

Abstract

High boron content Al-B4C metal matrix composites are highly attractive as an excellent neutron absorber material for the storage of spent nuclear fuels. In the present paper, the mechanical properties of two composites with AA1100 matrix reinforced with 25 and 30 vol.% B4C at ambient and elevated temperatures have been investigated. The thermal stability of two composites at 300°C is experimentally determined. The microstructural features and the tensile fracture at different conditions are examined. It is found that the mechanical properties of both composites remain unchanged at 300°C after a long holding period up to 1000 h. The thermal stability of the mechanical properties of the composites is directly related to the stability of all microstructural compounds of the material. Finally, the effect of the tensile temperatures on the fracture mechanism is assessed.