Original ArticleStudy of tensile properties, fractography and morphology of aluminium (1xxx)/coconut shell micro particle composites

Aluminium (1xxx)/coconut shell micro particle (Al/CMP) composites have been developed using a compo cast technique. Coconut shells (CSs) were processed with the aid of mortar/pestle and disc grinder and then classified with a set of sieves vibrated with a sine shaker. The CMP additions increased from 2% to 10% at 2% interval. Microstructural/chemical composition analyses were carried out with the aid of scanning electron microscopes (ASPEX 3020) with attached energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Phases were identified using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The tensile properties and mode of fracture were studied using Instron extensometer and Avery Denison Impact Testing Machine respectively. Results revealed 99.3% purity of aluminium matrix. The presence of new phases in the aluminium matrix is attributable to chemical interaction between Al and CMPs. The fine grained structure of Al/CMPs composites was confirmed by SEM and optical micrographs. The enhancement in the tensile properties is attributable to the presence of hard phases in the Al matrix and good interfacing bonding between Al matrix and CMP reinforcements. The cone and cup surface appearance with fibrous, dull, dimple and goose grain microstructure of the fracture surfaces of the composites is an indication of ductile fracture. Hence low cost metal matrix aluminium based composites have been developed.