Characterization of the Al6061 Alloy Reinforced with SiC Nanoparticles and Prepared via Powder Metallurgy

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effect of sintering temperature on the microstructures and mechanical properties of a composite material prepared by powder metallurgy technique. The composite material was a 6061 aluminum alloy matrix reinforced with silicon carbide nanoparticles. The characterization techniques were X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy, optical microscopy, Vickers hardness, and density measurements. The composite material was successfully prepared, as indicated by the homogeneous distribution of the silicon carbide nanoparticles in the aluminum matrix. The sintering temperature has a remarkable effect on the densification of the composite material. It was found that when the sintering temperature increases up to 600°C, the density increases. This phenomenon is also accompanied by an increase in hardness up to 32.2 Hv. We have deduced that the optimal sintering temperature is 600°C.