Multiplex modification with rare earth elements and P for hypereutectic Al-Si alloys

Abstract

The effect of rare earth (RE) elements on the morphologies and sizes of Si phases in the hypereutectic Al-Si alloys modified with P was investigated. The results show that the addition of La element to the hypereutectic Al-Si alloys can enhance the effect of P element on the modification of the primary Si phases. In the multiplex modification of RE-P, the primary Si phase is refiner and the shape of the eutectic Si is changed from long needle-like to short rod-like. Moreover, the agglomeration rate of the primary Si phase is slowed greatly. Even the melt is held for 6 h, the average size of the primary Si phase is still satisfied. The results analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) indicate that La is richer at Al-Si interface than that in α-Al or primary Si phase. The higher the La content in the Al-Si interface, the smaller the primary Si phase.