Particulate-strengthened of Al–Si alloy/alumino-silicate composite

An Al–6Si% alloy reinforced with alumino-silicate particles were produced by powder metallurgy method, the weight fraction of alumino-silicate was varies from 10 to 30% in the alloy. Properties namely: linear shrinkage, porosity, density, hardness, impact energy, compressive strength and microstructure were analyzed. The results of the tests and analysis carried out revealed that, addition of alumino-silicate as reinforcement; increase hardness values and linear shrinkage, with a decreased in the impact energy and porosity as the weight fraction of alumino-silicate addition in the alloy increased. The compressive strength increased up to a maximum of 20 wt% addition of the reinforcement. However, the increased strength and hardness value is as a result of the distribution of the ceramic phase in the ductile metal matrix. Therefore, the additions of alumino-silicate to this alloy increased it properties.