Study of an Al composite reinforced with nanometric SiC particles, produced by mechanical alloying

This study states about the experimental conditions to obtain an Al composites, reinforced with 10 vol. % of nm silicon carbide particles (Al / SiCp (nm)), by mechanical alloying (MA) process. Two ways of synthesis have been performed. The fact that the way of preparation named A, isn't able to produce the Al/SiCp(nm) composite, will be discussed. It has been shown that the final phases created from the way named B, depend on the used planetary milling conditions. Suitable milling conditions for the preparation of the Al / SiCp (nm) composite are the Omega(disc) = 484 rpm, omega(vials) = 250 rpm corresponding to an injected mechanical power equal to 0.85 W / ball / g. This Al/SiCp(nm) composite powder has been consolidated by hot isostatic pressing (400 / 500 degrees C 1.3 GPa) to achieve a high density bulk cylinder. The low porosity fraction has been checked by SEM observations. A first assessment of this composite mechanical properties has been investigated by a compression test.