Mechanical Properties and Microstructural Investigation of AA2024-T6 Reinforced with Al2O3 and SiC Metal Matrix Composites

Aluminium metal matrix composites (AMMCs) using alumina (Al2O3) and silicon carbide (SiC) as reinforcement elements are gaining significant interest in various applications because of their excellent properties. In this study, Al2O3/SiC with compositions (0.5 wt.%, 1.5 wt.%, and 2.5 wt.% for each) were used as reinforcement elements in an aluminium alloy (AA2024-T6). The samples prepared were AA2024-T6 + (0.5Al2O3/0.5SiC), AA2024-T6 + (1.5Al2O3/1.5SiC), and AA2024-T6 + (2.5Al2O3/2.5SiC) using a stir-casting technique. The experimental study included density calculation mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, compressive strength and hardness. The study also included a microstructure examination of the fracture surface of the tensile specimens. The results showed that incorporating Al2O3/SiC as reinforcement materials into aluminium AA2024-T6 significantly improved its properties. Hence, increasing the reinforcement with compositions of 2.5Al2O3/2.5SiC into AA2024-T6 showed a drop in density and increased mechanical properties, such as ultimate tensile strength, compressive strength and hardness, compared to the base alloy (AA2024-T6). Furthermore, the scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed the uniform distribution of the reinforcement particles resulting in strong bonding with the matrix. The findings suggest that Al2O3/SiC reinforced with AA2024-T6 can be used in applications where a combination of lightweight and high strength is needed.