The effect of matrix properties on reinforcement in short alumina fibre-aluminium metal matrix composites

• Published in: Journal of materials science Vol. 22; no. 8; pp. 3005 - 3010
• Main Author: FRIEND, C. M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Heidelberg Springer 01.08.1987
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Cross-disciplinary physics: materials science; rheology; Exact sciences and technology; Fibre reinforced metals; Materials science; Metals, semimetals and alloys; Metals. Metallurgy; Physics; Powder metallurgy. Composite materials; Production techniques; Specific materials; Scanning electron microscopy; Pressure die casting; Fibre reinforced metal; Fiber; Fibre; Aluminium alloy; Microstructure; Alumina; Tensile strength
• ISSN: 0022-2461; 1573-4803
• DOI: 10.1007/BF01086505

The present investigation of alloy matrix effects on room-temperature strengthening in delta-alumina-reinforced Al alloys notes that these alloy matrices are differentiated into two families exhibiting distinctive responses to fiber strengthening. While the first of these families derived minimal improvement in room-temperature strength, the second achieved improvements of up to 300 percent. These responses are presently accounted for by a simple rule-of-mixtures strength analysis incorporating modifications that take continuous and random orientations of the reinforcement into account. Little reinforcement occurs when matrix properties yield a high value of the critical volume fraction, which must be exceeded for an increase in strength. Optimum room-temperature reinforcement requires that the matrix alloy exhibit a low rate of work-hardening. (O.C.)