Compressive properties and energy absorption response of cBN added Al composite foams

Abstract

Abstract In this study, pure Al foam and 2, 5, 10 wt.% cubic boron nitride Al composite foams were manufactured to reveal the effects of cubic boron nitride addition on the properties of Al foam materials. Cellular morphology investigations and quasi-static compression test results were correlated with the effect of foaming agent behavior, compacting pressure, amount of ceramic addition, and compressive properties. The cubic boron nitride reinforced Al foams exhibited superior compressive properties and energy absorption behavior. The compressive properties were enhanced by increasing the cubic boron nitride content and compacting pressure. The maximum mechanical properties were achieved in 10 wt.% cubic boron nitride aluminum composite foams. The results revealed that these composite foams are possibly a candidate for specific high technology applications with high mechanical properties.