Development and characterization of carbon fiber reinforcement in Aluminium metal matrix composites

Abstract

Abstract Carbon fibers (CF) possess exceptional mechanical properties and the highest degree of chemical stability. However, carbon reinforcement in metal matrix composites is extremely scarce due to production difficulties, particularly in obtaining a uniform distribution. Carbon fiber reinforced composites are typically made using high temperature processing processes. However, the fibers must be coated with Ni or Cu in order to achieve effective particle dispersion; otherwise, there is a larger likelihood of intermetallic compound formation, which reduces the chances for enhanced properties. In this work, the metallurgical, mechanical, and tribological characteristics of the carbon fiber reinforcement in AA 7050 are examined. Uncoated carbon fibers are reinforced into the Aluminium matrix using a low temperature processing technique known as powder metallurgy. The AA 7050 matrix reinforced with carbon fibers at various weight percentages between 0 and 1.5. The samples undergone mechanical and metallurgical testing in accordance with ASTM guidelines. The findings indicate that the 0.25 weight percent carbon fiber reinforcement in the matrix increased the material’s hardness by 30% over the monolithic alloy, making it an excellent alternative for structural applications.