Effects of MgO Nano Particles on Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Aluminum Matrix Composite prepared via Powder Metallurgy Route

Abstract

The objective of the present investigation was to evaluate the microstructural and mechanical properties of Al /nano MgO composite prepared via powder metallurgy method. Pure atomized aluminum powder with an average particle size of 1μm and MgO particulate with an average particle size between 60 to 80 nm were used. Composites containing 1.5, 2.5 and 5 percent of volume fraction of MgO were prepared by powder metallurgy method. The specimens were pressed by Cold Isostatic Press machine (CIP), subsequently were sintered at 575, 600 and 625°C. After sintering and preparing the samples, mechanical properties were measured. The results of microstructure, compression and hardness tests indicated that addition of MgO particulates to aluminum matrix composites improves the mechanical properties.