Effect of Matrix Particle Size on Densification Behavior, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties of an Al/FMG/SiC Hybrid Composite

A study was conducted to examine the impact of matrix particle size on the density, microstructure, and mechanical properties of hybrid aluminum matrix composites reinforced with Fe-based metallic glass (FMG) and SiC particles. The composites were manufactured using the spark plasma sintering (SPS) process. The results showed that increasing matrix particle size led to an increase in porosity content. The distribution of reinforcing particles in the matrix was found to be more uniform when smaller particles were used. However, the phase properties and stored dislocation density remained unchanged with varying matrix particle sizes. On the other hand, the yield compressive strength and ductility of the composites significantly decreased with increasing particle size. The yield strength of a composite with a matrix particle size of 20 μm was approximately 80% higher than that of a composite with a matrix particle size of 63 μm. Therefore, for the synthesis of Al/FMG/SiC hybrid composites, the optimal outcome for different mechanical properties was observed with a lower matrix particle size.