An Overview of the Interactions Between Reinforcements and Al Matrices with Si, Cu And Mg as Alloying Elements in Aluminum Matrix Composites: Case of Oxide Reinforcements

Abstract

Abstract Oxides (Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, ZrO2, Y2O3, CeO2, MgO) are among the most used reinforcements for Aluminum Matrix Composites (AMC); while the combination of Al with Si, Cu and/or Mg excels among the alloying systems used as matrices. Some works in literature study the effects of the reinforcements and the alloying elements on the composites manufacturing, microstructure and mechanical properties. Nevertheless, it is necessary a recompilation of the interactions oxide reinforcement-alloyed matrix, including the reciprocal effects between them. Our search revealed that not only reactions occur at the interfacial regions, but also other phenomena depending on the reinforcement characteristics and the matrix composition, which affect mechanical properties. These phenomena include modifications in the matrix microstructure and its precipitation process, diffusion of elements through the interfaces, change in the reinforcement wettability by the liquid metal, loss of alloying elements, and deterioration of the reinforcement. This work presents the occurrence of these phenomena for Al matrices with different contents of Si, Cu and Mg reinforced with the most used oxides. Its novelty lies in exploring these combinations of conditions, which could serve as a benchmark study and help for a better understanding and selection of the matrix-reinforcement system.