A study of the static and dynamic properties of aluminum-based aluminum oxide metal matrix composites

A particle reinforced metal matrix composite (PRMMC) consists of uniformly distributed ceramic particles (approximately of equiaxed geometries) within a metal matrix. Recently, extensive research has been carried out on PRMMC composites with particles size greater than 1 mum; few researchers investigated PRMMC composites with reinforced particles less than 1 mum.; The main objective of this study is to determine the strengthening mechanisms of Al-based Al2O3 metal matrix composites under both static and dynamic loadings. Several samples of these composites with volume contents of 10, 20, and 30% Al2O3 were tested and studied. Low-velocity impact test results were compared with the outcome of a finite element model. In order to understand experimentally the influence of Al 2O3 particle clustering on the deformation characteristics and microstructural effects on the ductility and fracture properties of these composites. The fracture surfaces of tested samples were examined under SEM. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)...