Production and characterization of rich husk ash particulate reinforced AA6061 aluminum alloy composites by compocasting

Rice husk ash (RHA) is a potential particulate reinforcement to produce aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) economically. Compocasting method was applied to produce aluminum alloy AA6061 reinforced with various amounts (0, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8%, mass fraction) of RHA particles. The prepared composites were characterized using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. X-ray diffraction patterns of AA6061/RHA AMCs revealed the presence of RHA particles without the formation of any other intermetallic compounds. The scanning electron micrographs showed a homogeneous distribution of RHA particles all over the aluminum matrix. Intragranular distribution of RHA particles was observed. Further, RHA particles were bonded well with the aluminum matrix and a clear interface existed. The reinforcement of RHA particles enhanced the microhardness and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the AMCs. The tensile behavior is correlated to the microstructure of the AMCs.