Characterization of cast A356 alloy reinforced with nano SiC composites

The microstructure and mechanical properties of nano composites processed via stir casting were studied. The composites were based on the A356 aluminum alloy reinforced with nano SiC particles. The density measurements show that the samples contain little porosity and the amount of porosity in the composites increases with increasing volume fraction of SiC. The microstructures of the composites were examined using optical microscope and transmission electron microscope. Microscopic observations of the microstructures reveal that the dispersion of the particles is uniform. The yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and the elastic modulus are improved with the addition of nano particles although some reduction in ductility is observed. The highest yield strength and ultimate tensile strength are obtained with the addition of 3.5% SiC nano-particles. A relatively ductile fracture in tensile fractured samples was observed by fractography examination.