Author: Yagnesh Shadangi, Sakshi Sharma, Vikas Shivam, Joysurya Basu, Kausik Chattopadhyay, Bhaskar Majumdar, NK Mukhopadhyay
Institute: Department of Metallurgical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology
The production of aluminum matrix nanocomposites reinforced with Al–Cu–Fe 6082 quasicrystals is a high-tech process that combines mechanical grinding and spark plasma sintering. In the first stage, the use of mechanical grinding allows achieving the required dispersion of quasicrystals in the aluminum matrix, which helps to improve the mechanical properties of the final material. The process requires careful adjustment of grinding parameters to minimize oxidation and preserve the crystalline structure of the reinforcing particles.
In the next stage, spark plasma sintering is carried out at high temperatures, which leads to the formation of strong bonds between the quasicrystals and the aluminum matrix. This method ensures a uniform distribution of reinforcing phases, which in turn optimizes the thermodynamic and mechanical characteristics of the composite. The resulting nanocomposites demonstrate outstanding strength, rigidity and heat resistance, which opens up new horizons for their application in various industries, including aerospace and automotive engineering. Thus, the introduction of such nanocomposites can significantly improve the efficiency and durability of modern materials.
The desire to develop structures with high strength-to-weight ratios has led to the development of metal matrix composites (MMCs) with outstanding physical and mechanical properties. Aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) often use ceramic particles – carbides, nitrides and oxides – which have high strength and thermal stability at high temperatures. However, insufficient bonding between the aluminum matrix and the ceramic particles can lead to poor adhesion, which is a stress concentration zone for crack initiation.
Recently, researchers have started to introduce innovative reinforcement materials into aluminum composites, such as industrial wastes, quasi-crystalline materials, and aluminum-based intermetals, to improve the interaction between the matrix and reinforcement. The effect of quasi-crystalline reinforcement on the mechanical properties of the composites has also been investigated, showing that such additions provide significant strength enhancement. Advanced techniques such as high-energy ball milling and spark plasma sintering have been used to study the various characteristics of Al-QC composites.