Preparation and characterization of hybrid A359/(SiC+Si3N4) composites synthesized by stir/squeeze casting techniques

Stir followed by squeeze casting techniques were used to produce A359 composites containing different weight percentage of (SiC+Si3N4) particles. Microstructures of the composites showed a homogeneous and even distribution of hybrid reinforcements within the matrix. Moreover, particles agglomerations, residual porosity, and other casting problems were not noticed. Interfacial reactions between the particles and the matrix were investigated using X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray analyses. The presence of particles in squeezed composites did not only increase the peak hardness of the composites, but also accelerated the aging kinetics. As compared with the A359 matrix alloy, a compression test of the hybrid composites exhibited a significant increase in the yield and the ultimate compressive strengths with a relative reduction in the failure strain. Finite element modeling of the composite compression showed that strain concentration near large SiC particles is the main reason for low ductility of the composite. The development of those lightweight hybrid composites with high mechanical properties has a high potential to be used for automotive and aerospace applications.