Effect of Zinc Addition on the Mechanical and Corrosion Characteristics of Aluminium Matrix Composites

Abstract

Aluminium and its alloys are materials of interest because of their availability, unique properties and affordability, which have promoted their application in many areas. This study is aimed at investigating the effect of zinc particulate reinforcement or addition on aluminium matrix. Aluminium cans were reinforced with zinc particulates in varied proportions (0 – 2 wt. %) by mould casting. Morphology (microstructure), mechanical and corrosion characteristics of the composites were examined. The results showed that there was dispersion and dissolution of zinc particulates in the aluminium matrix as indicated by replacement of dark phases with bright ones in the micrographs. The mechanical characteristics indicated a reduction in the hardness of the specimen at 1 wt. % zinc reinforcement. Further increase in zinc concentration improved the hardness of the specimens. The ultimate tensile strength increased with zinc addition but reduced to about 97.2 MPa at 0.75 wt. % zinc addition. The ductility and impact energy of the specimens increased with increasing zinc concentration and likewise the corrosion resistance.