Properties Of Aluminum Matrix Composites Research Articles

Effect of aluminium nitride (AlN) particles addition on mechanical and tribological properties of aluminium matrix composites

Aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) are the most popular materials for use in a variety of industries, including the aerospace, automotive, and military sectors due to its advantageous features. In this study, the influence of AlN particles insertion on the morphology and mechanical properties were reported.Stir casting method was engaged to manufacture the AA2017 based composites reinforced with x wt.% of AlN particles (x = 0, 5, 10 and 15 wt%).The developed composites were undergone to conduct the tensile test, compression test, and hardness test as per ASTM standard. Microstructure of the proposed composites clearlyexposedthe homogeneous circulation of AlN particles and also no agglomeration formed within the matrix. The results showed the tensile strength (TS) compressive strength (CS)and hardness have drastically improved with insertion of AlN content in the base matrix. As a result, the better properties can be achieved in 15 wt% of AlN particles reinforced AA2017 matrix composite.

Investigating coherent and semi-coherent interfacial structures and energetics in Al/[formula omitted] interfaces: Theoretical insights into aluminum matrix composites bonding

Understanding the intricate interfacial structures and energetics between ceramics and aluminum is crucial for elucidating the mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs). However, previous theoretical simulations primarily focused on coherent interfaces, neglecting lattice constant variations on heterogeneous interfaces, which has led to discrepancies with experimentally observed semi-coherent interfaces. Here, using recently synthesized Al/Al3BC AMCs as a case study to systematically construct six semi-coherent interfacial models containing 383 to 588 atoms. These models are used to investigate the Al(11¯1)/Al3BC(0001) and Al(3¯11¯)/Al3BC(0001) structures and their associated energetics. Additionally, we examine 39 coherent interfaces for comparison. Work of adhesion and interfacial energy results reveal that the stable termination for semi-coherent interfaces is Al(B), which contrasts with AlC termination observed in coherent interfaces. Both Al(11¯1)/Al3BC(0001) and Al(3¯11¯)/Al3BC(0001) semi-coherent interfaces demonstrate higher stability but lower bonding strength compared to coherent interfaces. Bonding strength and stability of Al(B)-terminated semi-coherent interface in Al(3¯11¯)/Al3BC(0001) are lower than those in Al(11¯1)/Al3BC(0001). Electronic structure analysis indicates that AlC-terminated coherent interface exhibits greater charge transfer and stronger covalent metal bonds, while the Al(B)-terminated semi-coherent interface shows less charge transfer and more pronounced metallic bond characteristics. These computational insights provide valuable theoretical understanding of interfacial bonding mechanisms inherent in ceramic-reinforced AMCs.

Effect of carbon nanotubes on mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites: A review

Abstract Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are renowned for their low density, high elastic modulus, and exceptional electrical and thermal properties. The continuously developing applications of CNTs provide higher specific stiffness and strength for composite materials. The unique characteristics of CNTs make them ideal reinforcing particles in aluminum matrix composites (AMMCs), which generally exhibit excellent mechanical properties. CNTs/AMMCs are usually prepared using methods such as powder metallurgy, casting, spray deposition, and reactive melting. The uniform diffusion of CNTs in composites is crucial for enhancing the properties of CNTs/AMMCs. The properties of CNTs/AMMCs largely depend on the content, morphology, and distribution of reinforcements in the matrix and the interaction between reinforcements and the matrix. By adding an appropriate volume fraction of CNTs, the hardness, tensile strength, compressive strength, and electrical properties of CNTs/AMMCs were significantly improved. The effects of CNT content on the mechanical properties of CNTs/AMMCs, including the tensile strength, yield strength, compressive strength, stress–strain curve behavior, elastic modulus, hardness, creep, and fatigue behavior, were revealed. The design of microstructure, optimization of the preparation process, and optimization of composition can further improve the mechanical properties of CNTs/AMMCs and expand their application in engineering. The design concept of integrating material homogenization and functional unit structure through biomimetic design of novel gradient structures, layered structures, and multi-level twin structures further optimizes the composition and microstructure of CNTs/AMMCs, which is the key to further obtaining high-performance CNTs/AMMCs. As a multifunctional composite material, CNTs/AMMCs have broad application prospects in fields such as air force, military, aerospace, automation, and electronics. Moreover, CNTs/AMMCs have potential applications in cell therapy, tissue engineering, and other areas.

Microstructure and tribological properties of aluminum matrix composites reinforced with ZnO–hBN nanocomposite particles

Abstract In this study, pure and hBN-doped ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized by sol–gel method. ZnO–hBN nanoparticles were mixed with pure aluminum powders and samples were prepared using powder metallurgy processing parameters. It was observed that Al, ZnO, and hBN nanocomposite particles formed homogeneously. With the addition of ZnO–hBN, significant changes occurred in hardness, wear, and friction coefficient values compared to pure Al samples. The highest hardness value in the samples is mesh. It was obtained as 105 HB in 10 wt.% hBN added sample. In the wear tests, it is seen that the wear resistance is seven times higher in the 1 wt.% hBN added sample compared to the pure Al sample, while the friction coefficient decreases with the increase of the hBN additive.

Achieving the strength-ductility synergy in ultra-fined grained CNT/2024Al composites via a low-temperature aging strategy

Synchronous enhancement of strength and ductility is a persistent challenge in the development and application of carbon nanotube (CNT)-reinforced aluminum matrix composites. This study proposed a low-temperature aging strategy to induce the nanoscale precipitates and evade the strength and ductility trade-off dilemma. The composites under various aging conditions were characterized in detail at the macro, micro, and nano scales. The precipitation behavior and strengthening mechanism were investigated systematically. Results indicated that the composite exhibited a better mechanical performance when aged at 100 °C. Compared to as-extruded composites, the yield and ultimate tensile strength of CNT/2024Al composites increased by 82.7 % and 64.8 %, respectively, whereas the elongation decreased by only 1.1 %. The results of microstructure and theoretical estimation suggested the dense nanoscale GP zones were primarily responsible for achieving the strength-ductility synergy. This present study on tailoring precipitate evolution could provide fundamental insights and references to enhance the mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites.

Improving mechanical and thermal expansion properties of aluminum matrix composites reinforced by silicon carbide fiber

Combining the colloidal dispersion method with the squeeze melt infiltration technique, aluminum matrix composites with different volume fractions of silicon carbide fiber were fabricated at 680 °C under vacuum. Microstructure analysis found that composite presented a dense structure and fibers were homogeneously distributed in matrix. The hardness, yield strength and elastic modulus of the composite monotonically increased with increasing the volume fraction of fiber. The highest flexural strength for composite with 10 vol% SiC fiber was achieved. The improved mechanical properties could be attributed to the dispersion strengthening and enhanced load transferring ability by fibers as well as the dislocation strengthening. On the other hand, the coefficient of thermal expansion of composites was measured at temperature up to 400 °C. It was found that the uniform introduction of silicon carbide fiber could significantly low the CTE of aluminum matrix composite, which could be attributed to the low CTE of SiC fiber and good fiber–matrix interface bonding.

Evolution of microstructure and mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites reinforced with dual-phase heterostructures

The trade-off between strength and plasticity has long been challenging in particle-reinforced aluminum matrix composites (PRAMCs). This study proposes an innovative approach for preparing aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) using a dual-phase hybrid of FeCoNiCrMn high entropy alloy (HEA) and multiscale aluminum oxide (Al2O3) particles. The microstructure evolution and strengthening mechanisms were evaluated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results demonstrated that the dual-phase particle strengthening resulted from the alternating distribution and synergistic action of HEA and Al2O3 particles within the matrix, forming a continuous strain buffer with a strength gradient. Notably, introducing HEA and nano-Al2O3 led to a higher density of dislocations. Additionally, EBSD analysis revealed a uniform strain distribution within the AMCs, with a significant concentration of kernel average misorientation (KAM) near the grain boundaries (GBs). In terms of micromechanical properties, the micro-zones of heterogeneous phases exhibit exceptionally high elastic modulus and nanohardness. In terms of macroscopic mechanical properties, the material exhibited impressive ultimate compressive strength and compression ratio values of 447.9 MPa and 37.9 %, respectively. These results represented a remarkable enhancement of 72.1 % and 6.6 % compared to the single FeCoNiCrMn HEA strengthening. Moreover, when applying the HEA + nano-Al2O3 blending mode, the ultimate compressive strength further increased to 506.7 MPa, representing an astonishing boost of 94.7 %. This significant strength improvement can be attributed to effective interfacial bonding, grain refinement, and a high dislocation density resulting from both HEA and Al2O3 particles.

Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cu-CoatedCarbon-Nanotubes-Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composites Fabricated by Ultrasonic-Assisted Casting

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are considered ideal nanoscale reinforcement for the development of high-performance metal matrix composites due to their unique structure and excellent mechanical properties. However, CNTs are easy to agglomerate and have poor wettability with the aluminum matrix, resulting in unsatisfactory effects when added to the aluminum melt. In this study, Cu-coated carbon nanotubes (Cu@CNTs)-reinforced aluminum matrix composites were fabricated by high-energy ultrasonic-assisted casting. Moreover, the effects of different Cu@CNTs content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites were explored. Meanwhile, Fluent 19.0 software was used to further explore the function of ultrasonic vibration in the melt. The results demonstrated that the mechanical properties of composite with 1.2 wt% Cu@CNTs are optimal. Compared with the matrix, the composite with 1.2 wt% Cu@CNTs displayed a 39.3% increase in yield strength, 53.5% increase in ultimate tensile strength, and 5.7% increase in elongation. The simulation results showed that the uniform dispersion of Cu@CNTs and grain refinement can be attributed to the acoustic streaming effect and cavitation effect of high-energy ultrasound. The improvement of the properties of the composites can be attributed to the grain refinement and the load-bearing effect of CNTs.

Manufacturing and Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Aluminum Matrix Composites Reinforced with Continuous Carbon Fibers Using Melting and Casting Process

Manufacturing and Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Aluminum Matrix Composites Reinforced with Continuous Carbon Fibers Using Melting and Casting Process

Study on the friction drilling behaviors and tribological properties of aluminum matrix composites

This study investigates Al 6063 matrix composites reinforced with different weight percentages of B4C (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) produced through powder metallurgy and hot extrusion. The resulting specimens were subjected to a comprehensive investigation to elucidate the effect of B4C reinforcement on the density, tensile strength, transverse rupture strength (TRS), hardness, tribological characteristics, and friction drilling behavior. The pin-on-disk wear tests were conducted in a dry environment, while the friction drilling experiments were performed under constant spindle speed and feed rate conditions, both in dry and minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) environments. The findings revealed a uniform B4C particle dispersion and strong interface bonding in the matrix and that the hardness, tensile strength, TRS, and wear resistance of the specimens increased as the weight fraction of the reinforcement increased. The 15 wt% and 20 wt% B4C composites showed the highest wear resistance, improving by 62.78% compared to Al6063. Higher B4C content reduced specific wear rates and reduced friction coefficients. Among the specimens under investigation, the Al6063 composite reinforced with 15 wt% B4C indicated the highest tensile, transverse rupture, whereas the Al6063 composite with 10 wt% B4C exhibited the best thread-pull-out strength (TPS). The friction-drilled 10 wt% B4C composites showed the highest thread-pull-out strength reaching 373.44 N/mm² in MQL and 329.74 N/mm² in dry conditions.

Comparative Analysis of Tribological Behavior in Aluminum Matrix Composites Incorporating Fe75Si15Zr5B5 Metallic Glass and SiC Particles

In this study, a comparative investigation was conducted to assess the impact of Fe-based metallic glass (FMG) and silicon carbide (SiC) reinforcing particles on the tribological properties of aluminum matrix composites. The composites were synthesized using the powder metallurgy method, and subsequent dry sliding wear tests were performed by a pin-on-disc machine at ambient temperature. Thorough examinations of the microstructure, mechanical properties, and densification behavior were carried out for the developed composites, and these findings were then correlated with their wear performance. To gain insights into the wear mechanisms, comprehensive characterizations of the worn surfaces and debris were conducted utilizing field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. The outcomes of the dry sliding tests revealed that, in contrast to SiC, the addition of FMG reinforcing particles significantly decreased the friction coefficient while concurrently enhancing the wear resistance of the aluminum matrix. The microstructural investigations divulged that the pure aluminum sample experienced severe abrasive and adhesive wear mechanisms, which were effectively mitigated through the incorporation of FMG particles, due to the formation of an oxide tribolayer in the composite during the wear test. Conversely, the SiC-reinforced composites exhibited a dominant wear mechanism characterized by severe delamination, which consequently contributed to their elevated wear rate. These findings shed light on the distinct effects of FMG and SiC particles on the tribological properties of aluminum matrix composites, providing valuable insights for potential applications in engineering and industrial sectors, particularly in scenarios involving metal-to-metal contact.

Re-dissolution behavior of secondary phases and mechanical response of CNT/2024Al composites

Heat treatment is one of the most effective strategies for regulating microstructure and enhancing the mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites. In this work, the effects of solution treatment on the static recrystallization behavior, characteristics of secondary phases dissolving, and mechanical response of carbon nanotubes reinforced aluminum matrix composites (CNT/2024Al) were systematically investigated using transmission Kikuchi diffraction (TKD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Since plenty of deformation stored energy in as-extruded composites is consumed, the residual energy is insufficient to induce static recrystallization during solution treatment. Besides, various interfacial phases aggregated around the Al2Cu phases, which reduced the effective contact area between the Al2Cu phases and matrix, and severely hindered the dissolution process of the Al2Cu phases. The yield strength, tensile strength, and elongation of as-solution treated composites were 23.2%, 44.9%, and 23.0% higher than those of as-extruded composites, respectively. The enhanced yield strength is attributed to solid solution strengthening induced by the dissolution of secondary phases, thermal mismatch strengthening, and the strengthening originating from the formation of Al4C3 phases.

Superior Mechanical Properties of Aluminium Matrix Composites Fabricated through Modified Matrix Encapsulated Feeding Method

Superior Mechanical Properties of Aluminium Matrix Composites Fabricated through Modified Matrix Encapsulated Feeding Method

Tensile Properties of Aluminum Matrix Composites Produced via a Nitrogen-Induced Self-Forming Process

This study compares the tensile properties of commercial aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) with those of AMCs produced via a nitrogen-induced self-forming process. This process is a newly developed AMCs manufacturing process that takes advantage of the price competitiveness and productivity of large-scale products produced via the liquid process. Additionally, this process has the freedom of choice of the reinforcement phase and the homogeneous dispersibility of the powder process. Compared to commercial monolithic 6061 alloys, 6061 aluminum alloy matrix composites exhibit increased Young’s modulus, yield strength, and ultimate tensile strength by 59%, 66%, and 81%, respectively. This study also compares the tensile properties of AMCs with different matrix compositions, including 2009 and 7050 aluminum alloys. The study shows that AMCs produced using the nitride-induced self-forming aluminum composite (NISFAC) process exhibit comparable or superior tensile properties to those obtained using existing commercial powder metallurgy (P/M) processes.

Enhancing Aluminum Matrix Composites with Hexagonal Boron Nitride (hBN) Particulates

This present mini review article elucidates the role of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) particulates in enhancing the properties of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs). The article delves into various methodologies for incorporating hBN, such as powder metallurgy and stir casting, emphasizing theoretical aspects and process parameters. It synthesizes data from numerous studies to illustrate improvements in mechanical and tribological properties imparted by hBN. Furthermore, the article provides a theoretical analysis of the distribution of hBN within the aluminum matrix and its impact on composite performance. Future research directions are outlined, including exploration of novel composite materials and advanced manufacturing techniques. The environmental implications of utilizing hBN in AMCs are also discussed, highlighting sustainability and recyclability concerns. This review is a significant resource for researchers and industry professionals in material science, offering insights into current trends and future potentials of hBN-enhanced AMCs.

Role of –O functional groups at the Ti3C2O2(MXene)/Al interface in enhancing the mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites: A first-principles study

MXenes gradually become an ideal reinforcement for aluminum matrix composites (AlMCs) due to their excellent mechanical properties and the characteristics of surface groups. In this work, the structural, adhesive, mechanical and electronic properties of Ti3C2(O2)/Al composites are systematically investigated by first-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT), revealing the role of –O functional groups at the interface. The first-principles tensile simulation showed that the tensile strength of the composites increased from 6.93 GPa (Ti3C2/Al) to 8.49 GPa (Ti3C2O2/Al), indicating that the –O functional group was beneficial to enhance the tensile properties of the composites. The results of plane-averaged charge density difference and Bader charge quantitatively suggest that the Ti3C2O2/Al(111) system has greater charge transfer than Ti3C2/Al(111) system. In particular, the Ti3C2O2/Al interface has atomic orbital hybridization, forming highly localized Al–O and O–Ti bonds, which constitute an “Al–O–Ti” interlocking structure at the interface. Crystal orbital Hamilton population (COHP) indicate that the bonding strength at the Ti3C2O2/Al interface is higher than that at the Ti3C2/Al interface. Therefore, the “Al–O–Ti” interlocking structure enhances the load transfer capability of AlMCs and thus improves their mechanical properties. This work provides theoretical support for further understanding the strengthening mechanism of Mxene/Al composites.

Effect of MgO particles with in-situ graphene coating on mechanical and thermal expansion properties of aluminum matrix composites

Easy agglomeration and poor interface are bottlenecks restricting the effective transfer of internal stress in ceramic nanoparticle-reinforced metal matrix composites (MMCs). In this study, nanosized MgO particles coated by in-situ few-layered graphene (MgO@FLG) were synthesized using methane as carbon source by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method, then incorporated with Al matrix through powder metallurgy routes. It is demonstrated that MgO@FLG particles in composites were endowed with more significant strengthening contributions in comparison with the counterparts without coating. This is critically attributed to the interlayer van der Waals of FLG promoting the particle dispersion, and the chemical interface, which involves Mg-O-C bonding and moderate Al4C3 nanorods, improving the interfacial bonding. The thermal expansion behaviors and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of composites were investigated by testing thermal cycling ranging from 50 to 400 °C. The hysteresis residual strain of MgO@FLG/Al composites is less than that of MgO/Al composites, indicating a robust interface adhesion to adapt to the changing of internal stress. Furthermore, a low experimental CTE value was obtained for the MgO@FLG/Al composite, and its theoretical CTE value falls into a possible prediction region of Kerner’s model. This work provides new insights into the reinforcement modification and interface design of particle-reinforced MMCs, facing the application of structural components with the improved thermal stability and high load-bearing capacity.

Effects of graphene content on the wear properties of aluminum matrix composites prepared by powder metallurgy route

In this experimental work, the effect of graphene addition (GPNS) on the sliding wear properties of aluminum (Al) metal powder composite was investigated. A ball milling mixture was used to combine four different amounts of graphene (0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 wt%) with aluminum metal powder. The powder was compacted using a UTM machine and sintered using an electric muffle furnace. Electron microscopy (SEM), elemental electron dispersion (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the microstructure, elements, and phases of sintered Al-GPNs specimens. Mechanical properties were investigated using hardness and density. Sliding wear test against EN-32 Counter disc was conducted using pin and disc wear test. The morphology of sintered composite shows that the addition of graphene makes the microstructure homogeneous. Al-1GPNs sintered composite showed maximum hardness (55Hv) and density (2.56 g/ cm3). The addition of graphene also improved the wear and friction properties, and Al-1GPNs sintered composite exhibited minimum weight loss.

Enhanced mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites reinforced with high-entropy alloy particles via asymmetric cryorolling

To achieve higher performance of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs), high-entropy alloy particles (HEAp)-reinforced AMCs sheets were processed via asymmetric rolling (AR, 298 K) and asymmetric cryorolling (ACR, 77 K) methods. The mechanical properties and microstructure of the HEAp/AMCs were analyzed by tensile tests, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results suggest that ACR improved the mechanical properties of HEAp/AMCs to a higher degree than AR. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of ACR 3 wt.% HEAp/AMCs reached 253 MPa, which was 13.5% higher than that achieved with AR. ACR resulted in fewer microvoids, finer grain sizes, and higher dislocation density in HEAp/AMC sheets compared to AR. Such a reduction of defects during ACR can be attributed to the volume shrinkage effect of the HEAp/AMCs in the cryogenic environment.

Study on aluminium metal matrix composites reinforced with SiC and granite powder

The exceptional physical and mechanical properties of Aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) have garnered considerable attention, rendering them highly promising materials for a wide range of applications. The integration of reinforcements into the metallic matrix results in enhanced stiffness, specific strength, wear resistance, creep resistance, and fatigue resistance in AMCs as compared to conventional engineering materials. The present study is centred on the examination of the mechanical characteristics of Aluminium Matrix Composites (AMCs) that have been fortified with Silicon Carbide (SiC), Granite and Graphite powder. Composites featuring varying concentrations of SiC, Granite and powder were produced via a stir casting process. The composites were assessed through the implementation of ASTM standard procedures for conducting hardness, tensile, and shear strength tests. The findings underscore the potential of said composites for diverse applications that necessitate elevated levels of durability and resistance to abrasion.