Preparation of SiC Nano-particulates Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Nanocomposites by High Intensity Ultrasonic Cavitation Process

作者：Poovazhagan L^*; Kalaichelvan K; Rajadurai A

来源：Transactions of the Indian Institute of Metals, 2014, 67(2): 229-237.

DOI：10.1007/s12666-013-0340-0

• Metal matrix nanocomposites
• Ultrasonic cavitation
• Nanoparticles dispersions
• SEM images
• Elemental mapping
• Mechanical properties

The present investigation attempts to evaluate the effect of high intensity ultrasonic cavitation on dispersing the SiC nanoparticles in aluminum 6061 melt. Aluminum melt with various volume percentages of SiC nanoparticles was ultrasonically processed by dipping the ultrasonic horn into the melt. SEM and EDS study with elemental mapping validates the uniform distribution of SiC nanoparticles in the Al matrix. Compared to the un-reinforced alloy matrix and conventional composites, the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites, including tensile strength and hardness improved quite significantly as the particle volume percentage increased. The nanocomposites show better ductile properties as compared to the conventional composites. To understand the effect of ultrasonic vibrations on processing the nanocomposites, the nanocomposite was processed at three amplitudes and the results are presented. Ultrasonic cavitation based fabrication process proved as a better alternative to the conventional stir casting route to disperse the nano ceramic particles in molten alloys.

• 出版日期2014-4