Author: L. Lityńska-Dobrzyńska, J. Dutkiewicz, K. Stan-Głowińska, W. Wajda, L. Dembinski, C. Langlade, C. Coddet

Institute Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science Polish Academy of Sciences, 30-059 Kraków, 25 Reymonta St., Poland

Aluminum matrix composites reinforced with quasicrystalline Al–Cu–Fe particles represent an innovative class of materials with unique mechanical and physical properties. These composites provide high strength and rigidity, making them attractive for use in the aerospace, automotive, and electrical industries.

Quasi-crystalline phase formations have a complex atomic structure, which gives them exceptional properties, such as high corrosion resistance and reduced thermal conductivity. When introduced into the aluminum matrix, they enhance interphase interaction, which helps improve mechanical properties, including resistance to deformation and cracking.

Aluminum matrix composites were fabricated from virgin Al powder and sputtered Al65Cu20Fe15 particles using vacuum hot pressing. The spherical Al65Cu20Fe15 particles were icosahedral quasicrystalline dendrites and the cubic τ-AlCu(Fe) phase located in the interdendritic zones. The composites were prepared with different reinforcing particle contents (20, 40, and 60 wt%). All samples had a density of about 99% and excellent adhesion between the Al65Cu20Fe15 particles and the matrix. The phase composition of the sputtered particles remained unchanged after consolidation for the composites with 20% and 40% added particles, while with 60% addition, Al2Cu deposits were formed at the Al/Al65Cu20Fe15 boundaries and inside the matrix. Increasing the proportion of reinforcing particles resulted in an increase in hardness and compressive strength, reaching maximums of 173 HV0.5 and 370 MPa, respectively, for 60% Al65Cu20Fe15.

The study of quasicrystals, which have unique physical and mechanical properties, has shown their high potential for use as coatings or as reinforcing elements in alloys.

In addition, these composites demonstrate good processability. The use of processes such as injection molding and machining allows achieving the required precision and quality of products. Research shows that the optimal content of quasi-crystalline particles can significantly improve the reliability and durability of final products, opening up new horizons for their application in modern technologies.