Production and characterization of Al15Sn matrix B4C reinforced composites by powder metallorgy method

In the study, four different Al15Sn alloy matrix composite materials were produced with varying amounts of B4C reinforcement using the Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) method. These composites were sintered for 4 minutes at a temperature of 580°C and a pressure of 34 MPa, using graphite molds under an argon gas atmosphere. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and densities of the produced materials were examined. Microstructure analyses were conducted using XRD, SEM, and SEM/EDS techniques. Mechanical property tests were performed through three-point bending and hardness measurements. The highest relative density value of 95.50% was achieved in the Al15Sn-5B4C sample. It was observed that the relative density values slightly decreased as the B4C reinforcement ratio increased. Since a high argon atmosphere was used during production, no oxide compounds were formed. In XRD and SEM analyses, the B4C phases reinforced in the Al15Sn matrix were clearly visible in the produced composites. Compared to previous studies, higher hardness values were achieved in the Al alloys. The increased B4C reinforcement ratio improved strength but led to a decrease in ductility. Keyword: Composite Material, Spark Plasma Sintering, Density, Microhardness