Characterization of microstructural and mechanical properties of hybrid Al/SiC/Al2O3 nanocomposites

Abstract

This study focuses on the fabrication of aluminum-based hybrid metal matrix composites with a consistent SiC content of 2 wt% and varying concentrations of Al2O3 nanoparticles (2, 4, and 6 wt%), aiming to understand their improved properties and explore their potential applications in diverse industries. By utilizing the powder metallurgy method, Al-SiC-Al2O3 nanocomposite samples were synthesized through microwave sintering, followed by a comprehensive examination of their microstructural and mechanical properties. Experimental results revealed a uniform dispersion of Al2O3 nanoparticles in the Al matrix. The microwave-sintered Al-2SiC-4Al2O3 hybrid nanocomposite demonstrated significant improvements in various mechanical properties compared to pure Al, including an impressive increase in microhardness by approximately 115% (86 HV vs. 40 MPa), a substantial enhancement in yield strength by approximately 54% (113 ± 4 MPa vs. 73 MPa), and a remarkable increase in ultimate compressive strength by approximately 19% (364 ± 3 MPa vs. 305 MPa). The uniform dispersion of dense alumina nanoparticles, collectively contributing to a combined effect of strengthening mechanisms, attributed the observed enhancement in the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites.