Microstructure and mechanical properties characterization of AA6061/TiC aluminum matrix composites synthesized by in situ reaction of silicon carbide and potassium fluotitanate

K. JESHURUN LIJAY, J. DAVID RAJA SELVAM, I. DINAHARAN, S. J. VIJAY

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77 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Aluminum alloys AA6061 reinforced with various amounts (0, 2.5% and 5%, mass fraction) of TiC particles were synthesized by the in situ reaction of inorganic salt K2TiF6 and ceramic particle SiC with molten aluminum. The casting was carried out at an elevated temperature and held for a longer duration to decompose SiC to release carbon atoms. X-ray diffraction patterns of the prepared AMCs clearly revealed the formation of TiC particles without the occurrence of any other intermetallic compounds. The microstructure of the prepared AA6061/TiC AMCs was studied using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The in situ formed TiC particles were characterized with homogeneous distribution, clear interface, good bonding and various shapes such as cubic, spherical and hexagonal. EBSD maps showed the grain refinement action of TiC particles on the produced composites. The formation of TiC particles boosted the microhardness and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the AMCs.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1791-1800
Number of pages10
JournalTransactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China
Volume26
Issue number7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jul 2016

Keywords

  • aluminum matrix composite
  • casting
  • electron backscatter diffraction
  • mechanical properties
  • microstructure
  • titanium carbide

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Metals and Alloys
  • Materials Chemistry

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