An Investigation on the Suitability of Al-Mg Binary Hypo-Eutectic and Eutectic Aluminium Alloys as a Metal Matrix for Polymer Reinforced Composites and Lightweight Applications

Abstract

This research work reports on the investigation on the suitability of prepared Al-Mg binary alloys of hypo-eutectic and eutectic compositions, for making metal matrix composites for light weight applications. Commercial pure aluminium, and magnesium blocks were used for the purpose of making binary alloys of Al-Mg, with the Mg in weight percentages 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, and 37%. composition prepared by stir-casting under Argon cover gas. The cast Al-Mg alloys were cut to standard specimens to investigate its microstructure and mechanical properties. Test results revealed that the Vicker’s Hardness Number (VHN) of the alloys increases with the increased weight percentage of Mg and Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) were also increasing with increasing Mg content. The SEM images revealed the presence of micro-voids in alloys of higher Mg contents. The test values indicates the suitability of hypo-eutectic alloys as candidates for metal matrix composites for light weight applications.