Effect of jute stick charcoal powder on characterization of aluminum metal matrix composite

Abstract

The present work indicates the fabrication of Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) reinforced jute stick charcoal powder (JSCP) using stir casting process and investigates different properties of fabricated composites. Mechanical properties such as flexural strength, tensile strength, hardness, and impact tests are investigated. Additionally, the morphology of the MMCs were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was used to identify the phase of the MMCs. From the investigation it was found that the tensile and flexural strength of the Al+3% JSCP composite decreased by 27.1% and 1.32% respectively compared to the Al+1% JSCP composite. On the other hand, impact strength and hardness were slightly greater for Al+3% JSCP composite. SEM analysis revealed micro-cavities and charcoal powder particle size and distribution differences. XRD patterns of the prepared composite revealed the presence of JSCP and lattice parameter of the composite. The investigation of surface roughness under different cutting speed reveals that, composite with 1% JSCP exhibited a higher surface roughness than the composite with 3% JSCP because the micro-cavity and porosity was less in Al+3% JSCP.