Development of New Castable Al-Alloy-TiB2 Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

There has been a constant drive for replacing monolithic aluminum alloys by aluminum-based metal matrix composites (MMCs) in many industrial applications where high stiffness and high strength to weight ratio are required. The present paper describes a cost-effective route to produce Al-Alloy-10 wt % TiB₂ metal matrix composites by in situ molten flux assisted reaction synthesis. In Situ LM25-TiB₂ composite material prepared by reaction synthesis was cast into thick as well as thin section industrial components by gravity and pressure die casting route. Subsequent structure-property evaluation studies indicated sub-micron size reinforcement of in situ formed TiB₂ particles with improved physical and mechanical properties as compared to conventional aluminum alloy and its composites. From industrial point of view, the Al-TiB₂ composite has an advantage of easy recyclability over conventional aluminum-alloy composites. 

Keywords: Alloy, metal matrix, composites