Correlation between ceramic additions and compressive properties of Zn-22Al matrix composite foams

The compressive behaviors of Zn-22Al composite foams using SiC particles as reinforcement and stabilizing agent (ZA22/SiCp composite foams) were investigated in this study. To observe the deformation mechanisms, the deformation processes of the composite foams were recorded, and the cracks under the compressive load were observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Owing to the presence of the particles, ZA22/SiCp composite foams show more brittle compressive behavior with a large stress fluctuation than Zn-22Al alloy foams (ZA22 foams). The compressive processes of composite foams are characterized by the formation and propagation of the localized deformation band. The photomicrographs of the cracks indicate that a complicated effect of SiC particles on the compressive properties of the foams result in a high compressive strength. As a consequence, ZA22/SiCp composite foams exhibit slightly high energy absorption capacities, although low energy absorption efficiencies, as compared with ZA22 foams.