Interface modification of Al18B4O33w/6061AI composite by CuO coating on whisker surface

Copper coating was deposited on the surface of aluminum borate whisker (denoted by Al(18)B(4)O(33)w) by an electroless plating method. The result of X-ray diffraction (XRD) of whisker sintered at 850 degrees C indicates that CuO peaks can be found clearly. This method was used to modify the interface properties of the Al(18)B(4)O(33)w reinforced 6061Al matrix composite. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation indicates that the uniform coating can be obtained on the whisker surface. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) observation indicates the brittle spinel product (MgAl2O4) between Al(18)B(4)P(33)w and 6061Al matrix, the structure continuity of the whisker are greatly destroyed after the squeeze-casting process and heat treatment. Although copper coating can not totally hinder the spinel reaction, it effectively constrains the spinel reaction and preserves the structure integrity of the Al(18)B(4)O(33)w.