Structure and Properties of Aluminum Matrix Composites Reinforced by Al₂O₃ Particles

The work presents the research results of modern composite materials. The matrix material was EN AC AlSi12 alloy while the reinforcement ceramic preforms, obtained through sintering process of Al2O3 Alcoa CL 2500 powder with addition of carbon fibers as pore forming agent burned out during sintering. The composites were produced with use of porous material pressure infiltration method. The main limitation of base technology is a difficulty in obtaining composite materials with volumetric participation of ceramic phase in amount not less than 20%. Obtained on the base of ceramic preforms composite materials were tested with scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, hardness and tensile test was performed for acquired materials. Achieved results indicate the possibility of producing, with use of pressure infiltration method, porous preforms composed of Al2O3 particles, new composite material with desired microstructure and properties, being a cheaper alternative for materials with base of ceramic fibers.