Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Silicon Carbide-Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composite Based on Al-Mg-ZnO Phase

The microstructures and mechanical properties of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) reinforced by varying weight percents of silicon carbide (SiC = 2.5%; 5.0%; 7.5 wt.%) combined with magnesium and zinc oxide nanoparticles using the stir casting method were investigated. The techniques of Optical Emission Spectrometer, optical microscopy, Vickers microhardness, and tensile test were used to characterize the aluminum hybrid composites. Fine microstructures and good consolidation were found for all samples, with microhardness values ranging from 107.04 to 151.54 HV and tensile strength ranging from 79.15 to 124.05 N mm-2. The research found that incorporating hybrid composites refined grain size and enhanced the tensile strength of the composite material. Furthermore, study findings also indicated that a higher SiC percentage enhanced the spread of grain sizes and promoted the formation of the Al-SiC-ZnO-Mg phase, leading to increased AMCs hardness and tensile strength.