Production of rapidly solidified Al/SiC composites

• Published in: Journal of materials science 1988-09, Vol.23 (9), p.3195-3201
• Main Authors: EHRSTROM, J. C, KOOL, W. H
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Cross-disciplinary physics: materials science; rheology; Exact sciences and technology; Materials science; Metals, semimetals and alloys; Metals. Metallurgy; Physics; Powder metallurgy. Composite materials; Production techniques; Specific materials
• ISSN: 0022-2461; 1573-4803
• DOI: 10.1007/BF00551294

Rapidly solidified metal matrix composites have been produced on a laboratory scale either by (1) melt spinning a composite after introduction of the ceramic phase and extrusion of the flakes obtained, or (2) blending melt-spun powder (basic alloy) with the ceramic phase and subsequent extrusion. AlMg(Si) alloys were used as matrix material while SiC particles with diameters of 3 or 20 microns were used as the ceramic phase. For the composites prepared by route 1 it was found that the basic alloy was reinforced by the addition of 3-micron particles whereas for the 20- micron particles reinforcement was observed only for very ductile matrices. The bond between SiC particles and matrix was good. A diffusion and wetting bond was formed. For the composites prepared by route 2 it was found that reinforcement did not occur and that the bond between particles and matrix was weak. Debonding of the particles took place in the case of tensile fracture. The advantage of a rapidly solidified matrix for these composites is that relatively high ductilities are combined with good reinforcement effects. Prior contact of the ceramic phase and the aluminum melt is needed for a good bond between SiC and the matrix material. It is concluded that route 1 should be preferred for the production of rapidly solidified aluminum matrix composites. (Author)