Synergistic effects of SiC nanoparticles reinforcement on mechanical performance and microstructural features of Al2024 alloy

Abstract

This paper examines whether adding silicon carbide (SiC) nanoparticles (NPs) to the aluminum alloy Al2024 during fabrication improves its mechanical properties and microstructure. Al2024 is one of the most commonly used materials in advanced engineering applications. Composites are created using different weight percentages of SiC nanoparticles (1%, 3%, and 5%) that are mixed into the aluminum matrix using stir casting to achieve uniform particle distribution throughout the alloy matrix, and to subsequently enhance microstructural stability and optimize mechanical properties, all SiC-containing composites are solution-treated and artificial-aged after fabrication. Mechanical properties (tensile strength, yield strength, hardness, elastic modulus, and elongation-to-break) are tested for each weight fraction of SiC NPs added to the Aluminum matrix, showing an increase in tensile strength and hardness with an increasing concentration of SiC. Effective load transfer, particle strengthening, and refined microstructure as a result of adding SiC NPs to the matrix contributed to improved mechanical performance of the composites. However, the increase in tensile strength and hardness as a result of increased weight percentage of SiC NPs resulted in a marginal decrease in ductility, demonstrating a compromise between mechanical performance and ductility at higher weight percentages of SiC NPs in Al2024 composites. Overall, 3 wt.% SiC NPs composite had the best ratio of mechanical properties to weight. Its mechanical performance makes it a strong candidate for high-performance automotive components (ex., engine pistons) that require a lightweight structure, excellent wear resistance, and reliable mechanical performance. This research contributes to the continued development of high-performance aluminum matrix composites that meet the requirements of many industrial applications.