Mechanical properties and microstructure of AlFeSiV- SiC particulate composite

Abstract

Al-Fe-Si-V matrix composites containing 10 and 15 wt.% SiC with mean mass particle size of 29.2 ?m as the reinforcing phase were synthesized by squeeze casting route. The microstructural features, aging behavior and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated. The tensile results indicated that higher strength was observed in the composite materials than the unreinforced aluminum alloy. However, a marked decrease in ductility of the composites arising from adding of SiC particles was obtained. The aging behavior of the aluminum alloy was found to be influenced by the reinforced materials, i.e. the time to obtain the peak hardness in T6 treatment was lower for the composites than the unreinforced material. The fracture surfaces of composites revealed that decohesion of SiC particles from matrix is dominant. This article presents the effect of SiC particles on the aging behavior, mechanical properties and fracture of Al-Fe-Si-V alloy made by squeeze casting method. Copyright © 2007 MS&T'07®.