| 1. |
- Du, Andong, et al.
(author)
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On the efficient particle dispersion and transfer in the fabrication of SiC-particle-reinforced aluminum matrix composite
- 2023
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In: Crystals. - : MDPI. - 2073-4352. ; 13:12
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Lightweight SiC-particle-reinforced aluminum composites have the potential to replace cast iron in brake discs, especially for electric vehicles. This study investigates the effect of SiC particle size and matrix alloy composition on the resulting transfer efficiency and particle distribution. The performance of a specially designed stirring head was studied using a water model, and the stirring head conditions were assessed to understand the particle transfer and dispersion mechanisms in the molten aluminum. The standard practice of thermal pre-treatment promotes the wetting of the reinforcing particles and commonly causes clustering before the addition to the melt. This early clustering affects the transfer efficiency and particle dispersion, where their interaction with the melt top-surface oxide skin plays an important role. In addition, the transfer efficiency was linked to the particle size and the chemical composition of the matrix alloy. Smaller particles aggravated the degree of clustering, and the addition of rare earth elements as alloying elements in the matrix alloy affected the particle dispersion. The stirring parameters should be selected to ensure cluster disruption when the carbides are added to the melt.
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| 2. |
- Du, Andong, et al.
(author)
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The Influence of Ce, La, and SiC Particles Addition on the Formability of an Al-Si-Cu-Mg-Fe SiCp-MMC
- 2022
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In: Materials. - : MDPI. - 1996-1944. ; 15:11
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Road transport and the associated fuel consumption plays a primary role in emissions. Weight reduction is critical to reaching the targeted reduction of 34% in 2025. Weight reduction in moving parts, such as pistons and brake disc rotors, provide a high-impact route to achieve this goal. The current study aims to investigate the formability of Al–Si alloys reinforced with different fractions and different sizes of SiCp to create an efficient and lightweight Al-MMC brake disk. Lanthanum (La) and cerium (Ce) were added to strengthen the aluminium matrix alloy and to improve the capability of the Al-MMC brake discs to withstand elevated temperature conditions, such as more extended braking periods. La and Ce formed intermetallic phases that further strengthened the composite. The analysis showed the processability and thermal stability of the different material’s combinations: increased particle sizes and broader size range mixture supported the formation of the SiCp particle interactions, acting as an internal scaffolding. In conclusion, the additions of Ce and La strengthened the softer matrix regions and resulted in a doubled compression peak strength of the material without affecting the formability, as demonstrated by the processing maps.
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| 3. |
- Jarfors, Anders E.W. 1963-, et al.
(author)
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On the sustainable choice of alloying elements for strength of aluminum-based alloys
- 2020
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In: Sustainability. - : MDPI. - 2071-1050. ; 12:3
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aluminum alloys are today entirely recyclable and are seen as a sustainable material. However, there are limitations in the use of aluminum from material strength and cost perspective. Nickel, copper and rare earth metals are alloying elements that may provide strength at room and elevated temperatures. These are, however, often seen as harmful from a sustainability viewpoint. Additionally, these alloying elements are commonly costly. The current paper makes an analysis of the sustainability-strength dimension of alloying, together with a cost perspective, to guide alloy producers and alloy users in making an educated choice of direction for future materials and material development.
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