Synthesis and mechanical characterization of biomass fly ash strengthened aluminium matrix composites

Abstract

Matrix Composites (MMCs) and Metal Matrix Hybrid Composites (MMHCs) have transpired as leading materials. Keeping in view, the high specific strength and stiffness, superior wear and seizure resistance that these MMCs possess, they find application in automotive, aircraft and other engineering industries. The traditional reinforcement materials in Aluminium alloy improve the mechanical and wear properties but a high cost of creation is linked with them. Thus, agro wastes are a great alternative that can be contemplated for utilizing as the reinforcement. In this present work, the investigation of mechanical characteristics of biomass fly ash reinforced aluminium metal matrix composite has been performed. Biomass fly ash with different proportion (1%, 3%, 5%, and 7%) has been reinforced in the Aluminium alloy. Composites were synthesised via stir casting method. metallography, hardness, tensile and fracture toughness tests have been conducted to get a closer look on the properties of resulting composites. The results showed that an increase in the biomass fly ash content in the melted leads results in an increase in the, microhardness but decrease in tensile strength and impact strength.