Synthesis and characterization of sintered hybrid aluminium matrix composites reinforced with nanocopper oxide particles and microsilicon carbide particles

The application of nano-sized particles is increasing because it strengthens the Metal Matrix composites (MMCs) and maintains the ductility of the matrix alloy. The present investigation deals with the synthesis and characterization of hybrid aluminium matrix reinforced with micro SiC particles, and nanocopper oxide (CuO) particles prepared by sintering process. First the powder mixtures containing fixed weight (wt)% of SiC and different wt% of nanocopper oxide as reinforcement constituents that are uniaxially cold pressed. Afterwards the green compacts are sintered in an electric muffle furnace. Microstructure and mechanical properties such as tensile strength, microhardness and density of the composites are examined. Microstructure of the samples has been investigated by using scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). The results indicated that the increase in weight% of nano Cuo particles improves the mechanical properties.