On the use of interconnected reinforcements to enhance the performance of monolithic aluminum

Abstract

In this article, an innovative concept of using interconnected reinforcement architecture as a potentially viable reinforcement for a non heat-treatable aluminum alloy is presented and discussed. The candidate aluminum alloy chosen is 1050 and the reinforcement are wires of galvanized iron. The technique of conventional casting followed by hot extrusion was used to synthesize the composite material. The extruded aluminum alloy composite exhibited good interfacial integrity between the matrix metal and the wire-reinforcing phase. Thermomechanical analysis revealed a lower coefficient of thermal expansion for the aluminum alloy composite material when compared to the monolithic counterpart. Mechanical property characterization revealed enhanced matrix hardness, elastic modulus, yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the reinforced aluminum alloy metal matrix when compared to the un-reinforced counterpart, i.e. monolithic aluminum. The conjoint influence of reinforcement architecture in the metal matrix and volume fraction on properties is rationalized in light of intrinsic microstructural effects, nature of loading and macroscopic aspects of fracture.