Synthesis and Characterization of Al-SiO2 Composites

Abstract

The paper presents studies aimed at producing aluminum matrix composites reinforced with amorphous silica particles. The possibility of producing composites of the Al-SiO₂ (5 wt. %) system using intensive mixing casting and semi-solid metal casting methods has been established. Semi-solid metal casting followed by squeeze casting demonstrated the highest efficiency. The potential of using magnesium as a surface-active additive to remove oxygen from the surface of the dispersed particles and improve the mechanical properties of the composite material during heat treatment has been demonstrated. It has been found that the resulting composites exhibit a uniform distribution of dispersed silica particles throughout the metal volume. Furthermore, they possess hardness, corrosion resistance, and specific gravity values that exceed those of the original aluminum alloy. Composites produced using the developed technique may find application in various transportation engineering fields, as well as in aviation and aerospace industries.