Fabrication and Characterization of Iron Aluminide Reinforced Aluminiun Matrix Composite

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite
CONTENT
Chapter 1: Introduction 1.1 Metal Matrix Composite a brief 1.2 Ex-situ Metal Matrix Composites 1.3 In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites 1.4 Processing of MMC Chapter 2: Objective One Of The Possible Ways 2.1 Dispersion Strengthening Mechanism of Strengthened Composite Page 8 2.2 Strengthening Mechanism of Particulate Composite Matrix Composites 2.4 In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites an overview Page 8 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Chapter 3: Literature Survey 3.1 Current Status of Research and Development of Metal Matrix Composite 3.2 Preparation of Particulate Composites 3.3 Processing Methods of In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites 3.3.1 Application of Reinforcement/ Matrix Pre-Treatment Strategy 3.3.2 Reactive Gas Injection Process 3.3.3 Displacement Reaction Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 12 Page 13 2.3 Problems Associated with the Preparation of Ex-Situ Metal Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 6
2.5 Iron Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Composite as the choice
3.3.4 XD and LANXIDE Insitu Composite Materials Page 16 3.3.5 Combustion Synthesis Process or Self Propagating HighTemperature Synthesis 3.3.6 In situ formation of metal-ceramic composites by Reduction Reaction Page 18
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Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite 3.3.7 Reactive Infiltration Technique for Manufacturing of Net Shaped Al-Matrix Composites 3.3.8 Stir Casting Method of Fabrication of Mmcs 3.4 Processing Of Insitu Intermetallic Composite 3.5 Interaction between Matrix and Precipitate at High Temperature 3.6 Metal-Matrix Composite Spectromicroscopy Chapter 4: Experimental Procedure 4.1 Preparation of Insitu Metal Matrix Composite by MeltCast Route 4.2 Characterizations of Metal Matrix Composite 4.2.1 Tensile Test 4.2.2 Micro hardness test 4.2.3 Charpy Impact Testing 4.2.4 Microstructural study Optical Microscopy Chapter 5: Results and Discussions 5.1 Prediction through Optical Microscopy 5.2 Micro Hardness Measurements and Analysis 5.3 Tensile Testing 5.4 Charpy Impact testing Chapter 6: Conclusions Chapter 7: References Page 34 Page 38 Page 40 Page 41 Page 43 Page 45 Page 27 Page 28 Page 30 Page 31 Page 26 Page 23 Page 23 Page 18 Page 19 Page 21
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Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Metal Matrix Composite a brief Ex-situ Metal Matrix Composites In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites
Processing of MMC
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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
A composite material is a macroscopic combination of two or more distinct materials, having a recognizable interface between them. Composite is a multiphase material that exhibits a significant proportion of the properties of both constituent phases such that a better combination of properties is realized. This is termed as the principle of combined action. The composites industry has begun to recognize that the commercial applications of composites promise to offer much larger business opportunities than the aerospace sector due to the sheer size of transportation industry. Thus the shift of composite applications from aircraft to other commercial uses has become prominent in recent years. The various reasons for the use of composites are due to To increase stiffness, strength and dimensional stability. To increase tough and impact strength. To increase heat deflection temperature. To increase mechanical damping. To reduce permeability to gases and liquids. To modify electrical properties. To reduce cost. To decrease thermal expansion. To increase chemical wear and corrosion resistance. To reduce weight. To maintain strength/stiffness at high temperatures while under strain conditions in a corrosive environment. To increase secondary uses and recyclability, and to reduce negative impact on the environment.
1.1. Metal Matrix Composite a brief:

Metal matrix composites constitute a new class of materials, now starting to make a major industrial impact in fields as diverse as aerospace, automotive and electronics. This wider interest is because of the fact that these composites have following attractive characteristics: Higher temperature capability Fire resistance Higher transverse stiffness and strength No moisture absorption Higher electrical and thermal conductivities Better radiation resistance No out gassing Fabric ability of whisker and particulate-reinforced MMCs with conventional metalworking equipment.
The matrix in a metal matrix composite (MMC) is usually an alloy, rather than a pure metal, and there are three types of such composites, namely, Dispersion-strengthened, in which the matrix contains a uniform dispersion of very fine particles with diameters in the range 10100 nm, Page: 4

Particle-reinforced, in which particles of sizes greater than 1 m are present, and Fiber-reinforced, where the fibers may be continuous throughout the length of the component, or less than a micrometer in length, and present at almost any volume fraction, from, say, 5 to 75%.
It has been reported that the properties of the MMCs are influenced to a great extent by the nature of the reinforcements and their distribution in the host metal matrix. Ceramic whiskers, fibers and particles reinforced Aluminium alloys are now considered as candidate materials to replace some of the existing structural components, mostly made of Fe based alloys. For example, pistons and cylinder liners in automotive engines are currently being fabricated from Al-based composites. [1] Recently, the technique of reinforcing metal matrices by in situ reaction has gained considerable attention. In this technique, the reinforcing phase(s) is (are) formed in the host matrix via in situ chemical reaction between the matrix and the precursor element(s)/compound(s) during the composite fabrication. These composites, termed as in situ metal matrix composites and often referred as second generation metal matrix composites, offer many advantages over the conventional composites. The most important advantage among many is that the reinforcements so formed by the in situ reaction are finer in size and their distribution is more uniform, resulting in better mechanical properties of composites. However, here it would be worthwhile to mention that in most of the cases due to the high initiation temperature of the in situ reaction(s), formation of the reinforcements within the host matrix necessitates high processing temperature. But processing the composites at high temperatures involves the risk of oxidation of the matrix and may also cause agglomeration and coarsening of the reinforcements, which will cast an adverse influence on the mechanical properties of the composite. Based on the method of preparation metal matrix composite are classified into two types: Ex-situ metal matrix composite and In-situ metal matrix composite.
1.2. Ex-situ Metal Matrix Composites

Here, the reinforcement materials are prepared separately prior to composite fabrication and there after incorporated into the host metal matrix without any reaction between the reinforcing materials and the host matrix. In composites produced by conventional means it is necessary to achieve uniform and homogeneous distribution of reinforcing phases within the composite matrix by some mechanical techniques for combining the various phases. The only conventional composites in which this has been relatively easy are those employing continuous fibers. However, Ex-situ composites, while offering many advantages are structurally efficient materials, suffer from the following significant drawbacks, e.g. Property anisotropy Expensive constituents Costly process of fabrication
Other conventional ex-situ composites, which are produced by some mechanical mixing of the constituents, typically have far from ideal microstructure with random rather than uniform Page: 5

distribution of the reinforcing phases. Though little theoretical modeling has sought to address the effects of such non-uniform distribution of reinforcements there is substantial evidence that it causes significant deleterious effects, e.g. the damaging effects of matrix rich areas in fiber composites, which results in lowering of strength and toughness of these composites. Similar effects are also noted in a variety of other composites including those reinforced by particles, plates, or whiskers. In some cases e.g. whisker reinforced metal and ceramics there are additional difficulties associated with the mixing processes itself and with consolidation of the mixed constituents. Therefore, it becomes very difficult indeed to add more than 20-30 volume% of whiskers to a metal or ceramic powder and achieve any substantial degree of mixing or subsequent densification.
1.3.
In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites
In situ metal matrix composites are defined as multiphase materials whose reinforcing phases are formed in situ during the fabrication of the metal by the reaction between the precursors materials used. [5]
1.4. Processing of MMCs

Accordingly to the temperature of the metallic matrix during processing the fabrication of MMCs can be classified into three categories: (a) Liquid phase processes, (b) Solid state processes, (c) Two phase (solid-liquid) processes. In modern industry, it is more and more enforced to develop new composites, such as high resistant, alternative materials of low density, superior mechanical property in order to realize multifunctional pieces.
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Chapter 2
OBJECTIVE ONE OF THE POSSIBLE WAYS

Dispersion Strengthening Mechanism of Strengthened Composite Strengthening Mechanism of Particulate Composite Problems Associated with the Preparation of Ex-Situ Metal Matrix Composites In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites an overview Iron Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Composite as the choice
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CHAPTER 2: OBJECTIVE ONE OF THE POSSIBLE WAYS

The project deals with the synthesis of a metal matrix composite, having Al matrix with the prime reinforcement of Iron Aluminide and some oxide ceramic particles. Now the structure of Iron Aluminide should be such controlled that the composite reveals superior mechanical property. The composite also consists of intermetallic of Aluminium and Magnesium as the matrix metal as a large amount of Mg is supposed to be added to decrease Al loss as discussed further. The Al-Mg intermetallic also strengthens the matrix of the composite imparting a higher mechanical property. Hence our objective is to produce an insitu metal matrix composite having Al-Mg intermetallic matrix and the primary reinforcements of Iron Aluminide along with some ceramic particles like magnesite, alumina etc. Although many processes have been developed to incorporate reinforcing particles of iron aluminide in matrix, an in-situ technique in which a thermodynamically stable reinforcing phase is produced during processing can be the most economical on synthesis of composites. A typical example will be the conventional melt processing based on melting and casting, by which in-situ composites can be prepared at low production costs and high efficiency. Furthermore, this processing has an advantage that surfaces of reinforcements are not contaminated with oxidation films or other detrimental surface reactions.
2.1 Dispersion Strengthening Mechanism of Strengthened Composite

In the dispersion strengthened composite the second phase reinforcing agents are finely dispersed in the soft ductile matrix. The strong particles restrict the motion of dislocations and strengthen the matrix. Here the main reinforcing philosophy is by the strengthening of the matrix by the dislocation loop formation around the dispersed particles. Thus the further movement of dislocations around the particles is difficult. Degree of strengthening depend upon the several factors like volume % of dispersed phase, degree of dispersion, size and shape of the dispersed phase, inter particle spacing etc.[4] In this kind of composite the load is mainly carried out by the matrix materials.
2.2 Strengthening Mechanism of Particulate Composite

In the particulate reinforced composite the size of the particulate is more than 1 m, so it strengthens the composite in two ways. First one is the particulate carry the load along with the matrix materials and another way is by formation of incoherent interface between the particles and the matrix. So a larger number of dislocations [2] are generated at the interface, thus material gets strengthened. The degree of strengthening depends on the amount of particulate (volume fraction), distribution, size and shape of the particulate etc. [3]
2.3 Problems Associated with the Preparation of Ex-Situ Metal Matrix Composites
Higher cost of some material system. Relatively immature technology Complex fabrication methods for fiber reinforced systems (except for casting) Page: 8

Limited service experience. Numerous combinations of matrices and reinforcements have been tried since work on metal matrix composite began in the late 1950s. However, metal matrix composite technology is still in the early stages of development. Since metal matrix composites are man -made material their constituents are rarely thermodynamically stable, consequently during processing or extended high temperature operation extensive fiber matrix inter action occur. Fiber damage. Micro structural non-uniformity. Fiber-to-Fiber contact. The high cost associated with currently available whiskers. Health hazards associated with high aspect ratio of the particulate.
2.4 In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites an overview

In situ composites are multiphase materials where the reinforcing phase is synthesized within the matrix during composite fabrication. This contrasts with ex-situ composites where the reinforcing phase is synthesized separately and then inserted into the matrix during a secondary process such as infiltration or powder processing. In-situ processes can create a variety of reinforcement morphologies ranging from discontinuous to continuous and the reinforcement may be either ductile or ceramic phases. The potential advantages of in-situ composites as compared to discontinuous metal ceramic composites produced by ex-situ methods include: 1. Smaller reinforcement particle size with higher strength (a contribution from composite strengthening mechanism) and improved fatigue resistance and creep. 2. Small, single crystal reinforcements (lower propensity for particle fracture). 3. Clean, un-oxidized particle matrix interfaces with higher interfacial strength (higher ductility and toughness) and improved wettability. 4. Thermodynamically stable particles that are weldable and castable do not dissolve at higher temperatures (vis--vis age-hardened alloys), and do not have a reaction layer (higher interfacial strength, improved corrosion and long term stability.) 5. Better particle size distribution (improved mechanical properties). 6. More conventional processing with the potential for lower cost and production with conventional equipment. In conclusion, the objectives to develop the in-situ particulate composites can be summarized as follows: 1. The interfaces of the particle matrix can be cleaner, as the particles separate out of the matrix. It can lead to better interfacial bonding. 2. Very fine particles may form within the matrix to produce dispersion hardened particle composites. 3. The problem of non-wettability of particles and interface degradation by chemical reaction, as observed in synthetic composites can be ruled out. 4. The in-situ formed particles may be coherent with the matrix that may improve the mechanical properties of the composites. Page: 9
Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite 2.5 Iron Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Composite as the choice
Ordered intermetallics based on aluminides of transition metals such as iron, nickel, niobium, titanium and cobalt have been evaluated for their potential as high temperature structural materials for the last several decades. The amount of Aluminium in these alloys exceeds that used in conventional alloys and can range from 10 to 30 wt. %. This concentration of Aluminium allows the formation of an impervious oxide layer which is responsible for the excellent oxidation, sulfidation and carburization resistance at temperatures of 1000oC or higher. In particular, iron aluminide intermetallic alloys have a lower density than most stainless steels. They possess high oxidation resistance and are unequalled in their resistance to sulfidation in H 2S and SO2 gases. Iron aluminides have also been found to be resistant to corrosion in certain molten salts. They are potentially less expensive than many currently used high-temperature alloys, as they contain no nickel and only minor amounts of other alloying elements. A significant improvement in the room temperature properties has resulted from recent development efforts. However, the strength of iron aluminides decreases above 873 K and thus the advantages they offer in terms of corrosion resistance have not been fully exploited. In order to improve the high-temperature strength of intermetallic alloys, ceramic particles can be utilized as reinforcements. In particular, FeAl and Fe3Al alloys have been the subject of investigations where ceramic particles have been introduced into the matrix in attempts to increase the high temperature creep strength. Mixing of dissimilar materials such as the reinforcement and the matrix phases may lead to interfacial reactions during service at high temperatures, due to the lack of a thermodynamic equilibrium between the two phases. These interfacial reactions may produce brittle phases at the interface leading to premature failure. On the other hand, reinforcement phases that are thermodynamically compatible with the matrix can be produced by in situ processing. One of the many available in situ processing techniques includes fabrication using displacement reactions. Processing by displacement reactions allows the in situ growth of reinforcements in the composite matrix resulting in composites with unique combinations of reinforcements and matrices. Near net-shape metal and intermetallic oxide composites can be obtained by appropriately selecting the reactants and processing parameters, taking care to minimize the volume changes resulting from the reaction. Displacement reactions are phase transformations between two or more elements or compounds resulting in the formation of new product compounds that are thermodynamically more stable than the starting reactants. The product phases exhibit specific morphologies that depend on the relative stabilities of the growth interfaces of the product phases. While some systems demonstrate stable planar or layered growth features throughout the reaction, other systems exhibit morphological instabilities that cause the product phases to interpenetrate the parent phase during growth from initially planar interfaces. Therefore, displacement reactions exhibiting morphological instabilities have the potential to grow interpenetrating reinforcement phases in situ.
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Chapter 3
LITERATURE SURVEY
Current Status of Research And Development Of Metal Matrix Composite Preparation of Particulate Composites Processing Methods of In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites Processing Of Insitu Intermetallic Composite Interaction between Matrix and Precipitate at High Temperature Metal-Matrix Composite Spectromicroscopy
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CHAPTER 3: LITERATURE SURVEY

3.1 Current Status of Research and Development of Metal Matrix Composite
During the last few years a lot of attention has been paid to the development and application of metal matrix composites and inter-metallic matrix composites. [6] Traditionally these composites were produced by such processing technique as powder metallurgy, [7] rapid solidification [6] and diverse casting techniques, the reinforcing phase (AL2O3 particulate for instance) is first mixed with the matrix material. The scale of the reinforcing phase is consequently constrained by the starting powder size, which is typically of the order of few microns to that of few tens of microns & rarely below 1m. [8] In the last ten years, new in-situ processing technology for fabricating metal and ceramic composite has immerged as a very promising technique. Here it is to be noted that in-situ metal matrix composites is generally defined as multiphase materials whose reinforcing phases(s) is(are) synthesized in the metal matrix by reaction during the composite fabrication. [5] This is in sharp contrast to the conventional metal matrix composites which are termed as Ex-situ metal matrix composites and whose reinforcing phase(s) is (are) prepared separately prior to the composites fabrication. Conventional processing of Ex-situ metal matrix composites has some drawbacks that have to be overcome, such as interfacial reaction between reinforcement and matrix, etc. this has led to the development of in-situ metal matrix composites. Some researchers logically regard insitu metal matrix composites as second-generation metal matrix composites. [9] Indeed this group of material is new and under active studies worldwide because of the potential advantages it has over the conventional metal matrix composites. Furthermore, the Ex-situ metal matrix composites reported in the open literature are mainly discontinuously reinforced. The following are the advantages of the in-situ metal matrix composite fabrication technique over the discontinuously reinforced metal matrix composites produced by Ex-situ method. [9-11] The in-situ form reinforcement is thermodynamically stable in the matrix, leading to less degradation in high temperature service. The reinforcement matrix interfaces are clean contributing to an improvement in wettability. Fabrication cost is lower because it is a one step process. The In-situ form reinforcing particle is finer in size and their distribution is more. The In-situ form reinforcing particle are finer in size and their distribution is more uniform resulting in better mechanical properties of the metal matrix composites.
Because of the great potential that the In-situ metal matrix composites offered for widespread application, many techniques are recently developed to produce them. Although important processing details are not generally reported in the open literature the number of publication in this area has been decreasing worldwide. In most of the cases in-situ techniques use chemical reaction for the formation of the reinforcement; these technologies include Self-propagating High Temperature Synthesis (SHS), Direct Metal Oxidation Method (DIMOX), Exothermic Dispersion (XD) Mechanical alloying [12-17] and reactive infiltration [18-21] or reactive powder metallurgy. [22-23] Because of the fineness and thermodynamic stability of the reinforcing phase, it is expected that these in-situ composites
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should offer excellent dispersion of fine reinforcing particle and generate nascent interface, resulting in better mechanical properties and high temperature performance. Another advantage of in-situ technique is their capability of processing materials or composites that could be difficult to obtain by other conventional methods. Such as Al-Fe based composites Fe3Al has lower density and very good oxidation resistance. Such attractive characteristic also makes Fe3Al the potential candidate for low density high temperature structure materials. But due to its low cleavage strength, its application is so far limited. One way to improve the strength is to introduce reinforcing phase into the Fe3Al matrix. Reactive sintering is one of the many routs that have been used to develop in-situ metal matrix composites. Basically it is a process that is similar to the well-established sintering process in powder metallurgy. One of the most important aspect is that, here, the components are reactive and during the process chemical reaction takes place leading to the formation and dispersion of the reinforcement in the matrix. During the reactive sintering process the matrix metal particles are usually melted to promote the reaction and to bind the reinforcing particle. This technique has been applied to produce Al/TiB2 metal matrix composites from elementary powder. Another technique of the application of this technique is the synthesis of Al/ (Al2O3, TiB2) master alloy that can be diluted in an Aluminium melt to process Al/ (Al2O3, TiB2) metal matrix composites. The synthesized components were found to be free of agglomeration and therefore suitable for being the master alloys. In a related field the conventional combustion synthesis or SHS method can produce high purity products but with high porosities. [24] The relatively high porosity (30-70%) in the product is mainly due to (i) Low grain density of the reactant mixture. (ii) Intrinsic value changes between the reactant and product in the combustion synthesis reaction. If the grain density of the reaction mixture is increased the relative density of the product is expected to improve but for the powder SHS process it is difficult to achieve full density in the reactant mixture. Therefore, consolidation techniques, such as hot isostatic pressing (HIP) & Hot Extrusion have to be employed to increase the relative density of the final product. Although these techniques can provide high relative density, they do in an economic penalty. [25]
3.2 Preparation of Particulate Composites

The particulate composition can be prepared by incorporating the reinforcing particles directly into the matrix or by producing in-situ with the help of various techniques. The first approach is more popular, where the reinforcing particles are injected into either solid or liquid matrix. In case of powder metallurgy technique, alloy powders are blended with the ceramic particles and the mixture are hot or cold compacted in controlled atmosphere to desire shape and degassed. The compact are usually hot worked for final consolidation. In case of cold compact, sintering may precede the hot working operation. But the liquid phase processes have been investigated in greater detail in recent year due to its ability to produce massive component at lower costing these processes, the ceramics particles are incorporating into metal using various techniques or cast into ingots for secondary processing. The major difficulties in such processes are the nonwettability of the particle by liquid metal and the consequent rejection of the particle from the melt and also the non-uniform distribution of particles due to preferential segregation and extensive interfacial reaction. During solidification of composite, particle-interface interaction plays a major role in dictating the particle distribution. Page: 13

The particle ahead of the interface may get pushed, engulfed, or entrapped in the moving solidification front. In turn the presence of the particle may influence the morphology of the advancing interface. In the early stage of development of cast particle composite, particle were injected into molten Aluminium through carrier gas. To achieve greater recovery, coating of particle has been suggested than the uncoated particle e.g. nickels coating of graphite particle in case of Al matrix composite. Nickel improved the wettability of the particle by Al melt. To ensure uniform distribution of particles, stirring of melt after injection has been suggested. [26] Pellet method was developed to incorporate ceramic particle in to the Al melt. In this method the coarser particle of the base alloy and reinforcing ceramic particle were mixed and pressed to form pellets. These pellets were subsequently plunged into the melt followed by the slow stirring manually or mechanical. The distribution of particles in the cast particulate composites was not satisfactorily uniform when it was prepared by injection technique or pellet method without stirring. Addition of Mg, Li, Si, and Ca into Al melt improved wettability either by changing the interfacial energy through some interfacial reaction or by modifying the oxide layer on the metal surface. Mg addition has an effect on the recovery of alumina particles in Al melt. It is also revealed in their study, that fresh addition of Mg is more effective as compared to pre alloyed Mg. Addition of Ca also improve the wettability of alumina particle in Al-4.5 Cu melt, but its effect on improvement of the retention of particle is less than with magnesium addition. Another approach to avoid the rejection of ceramic particle from Al melt is to add the particle into partially solidified slurry of liquid alloy. A suitable temperature is selected to have about 40% of solid in the alloy. The partially solid alloy is agitated and the particles are added to it. Initially the ceramic particles are mechanically entrapped in the partially solidified slurry and with further mixing, interaction between the ceramic particle and the liquid alloy promote binding. After mixing of the ceramic particle, the semisolid composite slurry can be cast directly by rheocasting. In another method, the composition slurry is heated to temperature above its liquid temperature and subsequently can be cast. This process is known as compocasting. A similar method has been used to prepare Al alumina particle composites by addition the particle into a mechanically stirred Al alloy in the semi fused state. The process requires costly tooling and still, uniform distribution of particle is difficult to obtain. In this case we have decided to go for Liquid metal Technique to process the composite and Stir Casting Method of Fabrication. The theoretical outline of the method is described briefly below.
3.3 Processing Methods of In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites

Advanced composite materials have been widely used in aerospace and military application. But the present situation demands their commercial applications. The primary reason, which prohibits their usage as commercial material, is their high cost, which is involved in their processing. In this scenario processing of composites have taken a large part of the research activities.
3.3.1 Application of Reinforcement/ Matrix Pre-Treatment Strategy

In a recent investigation, reinforcement pretreatment was used to achieve desired interfacial debonding performance in a system of practical engineering importance. [26] The process included coupling reinforcement pretreatment with reactive hot compaction to synthesize a niobium aluminide composite reinforced with ductile niobium filaments as a toughening phase. The prePage: 14

oxidized Nb filaments, niobium powder and Aluminium powder were blended and compacted. In the presence of low melting point liquid Aluminium, niobium oxide on the surface of the preoxidized niobium filaments were converted, in-situ, to niobium + alumina and the niobium powder was converted by reaction sintering to niobium-aluminide. It has been previously determined that alumina coating of niobium filament was necessary as a diffusion barrier to prevent formation of strongly bonded embrittling reaction layers at the filament matrix interface.
3.3.2 Reactive Gas Injection Process

The reactive gas injection process (RGI) [27] process has been developed for the synthesis of fine single crystal TiC platelets in Al and Ni matrix. The process involves the injection of carbon or nitrogen bearing gas into a mother alloy and subsequently reaction of carbon/nitrogen containing gas with the alloying elements to produce micro level reinforcement. The highly exothermic process is moderated by means of the carrier gas and leads to fine homogeneous distribution of the stoichiometric carbides. The in situ process produces TiC of size 0.1 to 5 m (Vis a Vis 5 to 100 m for artificial mixing processes) with a narrower carbide size distribution. The minimum i is limited b the nucleation process and corresponds to 0.1 m in diameter. he maximum size of reinforcement is determined by diffusion controlled coarsening of carbides and varies from 5 to 15 m. The maximum volume fraction reinforcement is limited by the melt viscosity and does not actually exceed 40 volume percent. The schematic of the in situ synthesis techniques is shown in the figure below. An alumina crucible coated with Yittria (Y2O3) was used as the reaction vessel and was placed within a graphite susceptor to ensure uniform heating over the length of the
Fig 3.1: Schematic of the RGI synthesis laboratory approach

crucible. A thermocouple placed in contact with the bottom surface of the graphite susceptor was used for temperature monitoring purpose. Melting was achieved under vacuum and subsequently the chamber was backfilled with purified Argon which also serves as the carrier gas. Upon reaching the appropriate processing temperature, the carbonaceous gas was introduced into the melt via a gas diffuser system. The reaction was conducted at a constant temperature for an appropriate length of time to ensure complete conversion of Ti to TiC. After completion of the reaction the Page: 15

powder was turned off and the melt was allowed to solidify. The processing time and temperature depend upon the gas partial pressure and alloy chemistry. Processing times and temperatures ranged from 6 minutes to 8 hours and 1150oC to 1600oC respectively, depending upon the matrix chemistry as well as the melt quantity and volume fraction desired.
3.3.3 Displacement Reaction

Displacements reactions are the processes in which one element displaces another in a compound by diffusional transport to form new product compounds that are more thermodynamically stable than the starting reactants. For such reactions between metals and oxides, two distinct morphologies have been observed, aggregate and layered. Which morphology forms depends on the presence or absence of the growth instabilities governed by the principle of maximum reaction rate. [28] For systems in which aggregate structure occurs displacement reactions can be used to grow reinforcement in-situ. An example of the system is SiO2 in molybdenum di-silicide matrix [29].The processing involves reacting compacts of Si and molybdenum carbide in the range of 1600 o 1800oC. It produces an initial layer of Mo5Si3C. The true displacement reaction occurs between this ternary phase layer and silicon to form molybdenum disilicide + silicon carbide. In situ composites are also being formed by displacement reactions between liquid and solids. A method involving the displacement of silicon from silica or mullite by Aluminium has been demonstrated. [30] When silicon is placed in melted Aluminium at approximately 1100oC, the silica reacts with the Aluminium to form a ceramic/metal composite consisting of co-continuous mixture of alumina and Aluminium, with silicon precipitates in the metal.
3.3.4 XD and LANXIDE Insitu Composite Materials
Fig 3.2: Schematic of process for production of original Lanxide Dimox material
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Both the XD and LANXIDE are the process of development of in situ composite materials. The LANXIDE belongs to the family of metal-toughened ceramics whereas XD belongs to the family of particulate and whisker reinforced metal and intermetallics. Both the materials can be classified as resulting from SHS (Self Propagating High Temperature Synthesis) type reactions which involve exothermic process. [31] Both of these materials are truly in situ composites with reinforcing phases produced during the processing and fabrication of the materials, not added to the matrix through some mechanical dispersion scheme. The original LANXIDE materials consisted of an Aluminium oxide matrix toughened by a minor amount of Aluminium metal at the Aluminium grain boundaries and were capable of being produced to near net shape. These materials were produced by controlled oxidation of Aluminium metal alloy performs of particular composition as shown in figure 3.2. In addition to the concerns about keeping the basic process proprietary there were also concerns that the many possible ramifications of the process, such as the potential for net shape processing, [32] the formation of composites, [33] and the preparation of materials such as nitrides [34] or carbides [35-37] could be easily deduced once the basic process itself was understood. The original XD materials consisted of a matrix of various titanium aluminides and titanium, reinforced by a dispersion of inter-metallic and ceramic particles produced by exothermic reactions of constituents during billet formation. This material looks very promising when compared to conventional titanium alloys. The XD Ti3Al+TiAl+TiB2 material showed much higher elastic modulus than Ti-6Al-4V.[38-39] The XD materials also showed improvements in yield stress and creep resistance at temperatures over 1000K. The XD process is also one where the ramifications are fairly obvious, once one has the basic concept. If it is possible to produce TiB2 reinforced Ti3Al/TiAl, it should likewise be possible to produce a wide range of other similar materials, e.g. ceramic particulate reinforced intermetallics as well as ceramic and inter-metallic reinforced metals.
3.3.5 Combustion Synthesis Process or Self Propagating HighTemperature Synthesis

The underlying basis of combustion synthesis relies on the ability of highly exothermic reactions to
Fig 3.3: Schematic representation of the temperature-time curve during SHS reaction
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be self-sustaining and, therefore, energetically efficient. Thee exothermic self-propagating high temperature synthesis (SHS) reaction is initiated at the ignition temperature Tig and generates heat, which is manifested in a maximum or combustion temperature Tc, which can exceed 3000K. The exothermic reaction mixture, normally in the form of powders is pressed into a pellet of certain green density and is subsequently ignited, either locally at one point (propagating mode) or by heating the whole pellet to the ignition temperature of exothermic reaction (simultaneous combustion mode). A schematic representation of a typical temperature-time slot for a combustion reaction is given in figure below. The un-reacted reactant mixture, at initial temperature T0, is heated to the ignition temperature Tig, whereupon the reaction is initiated. One of the major limitations of combustion synthesis is the degree of porosity of the synthesized products. Typical porosity levels which reach 50%, [40] is quite acceptable and quite advantageous if the resultant products are to be subsequently milled and used as powders. However if the main objective is to produce dense components during the synthesis and processing operation, a subsequent or simultaneous compaction process is required. Coupling the simultaneous combustion mode of SHS with hot pressing and the use of diluents to control the combustion temperature has been shown to produce dense ceramic-metal composites. [41]
3.3.6 In situ formation of metal-ceramic composites by Reduction Reaction [42]

The starting materials were manganous carbonate, MnCO3.xH2O and hematite (99%). The MnCO3.xH2O was calcined overnight and then at 1100oC for 24 hours to obtain Mn3O4. The Fe3O4 and Mn3O4 powders were wet ball milled using Teflon balls. The mixed powder was dried and compacted in an alumina die in a controlled atmosphere hot press at 1300 oC, with a stress of about 12 MPa under uniaxial loading at an oxygen activity of Log (aO2) = -10.35 maintained by a CO/CO2 (= 4 : 1) gas mixture diluted in 50% nitrogen. The sample was then allowed to remain in the furnace for 5 hours to transform the initial oxide mixture to stable oxide solid solution (Fe 1xMnx)O with the rock salt structure. The presence of this phase was confirmed by an X-Ray diffraction powder experiment. The hot pressed material produced by this process was estimated to have 95-96% of the theoretical density. For addition of dopants, such as ZrO 2 a water soluble compound, zirconyl nitrate (ZrO (NO3).9H2O) was added in appropriate amount during ball milling. This allowed a uniform distribution of the dopant within the polycrystalline material. The samples used for reduction were rectangular bars with cross section of 1mm 2 and length of 2-3 mm. For a systematic comparison of the metal-ceramic microstructures obtained for different reduction conditions, the following process parameters are supposed to be used Temperature ranging from 800oC to 1200oC. Two ratios of CO/N2: 5% O in N2 and 10% O in N2 (N2 denotes Nitrogen containing Oxygen as an impurity at a level of 200 ppm). Reaction time of 4 and 8 hours, and 0.5 wt% and 2wt% addition of ZrO2 as dopant.
3.3.7 Reactive Infiltration Technique for Manufacturing of Net Shaped Al-Matrix Composites [43]
Reactive infiltration has potential for fabricating complex near net shaped MMC components. The process consists of infiltrating a carbon or polymer precursor preform with a reactive alloy and possible reactions are dependent on the relative thermodynamic stability and reaction kinetics. Page: 18
Al-Ti/Si + [C]* Al + TiC/SiC Al-Ti/Si + [AlN] Al + TiN/Si3N4 Al Ti/Si + [C2H5]n Al + TiC/SiC (Preform materials in parenthesis) It is possible to tailor the preform to have graded reinforcement and controlled reinforcement volume fractions. The polymeric performs can also be selected to have non-carbide reinforcement. The matrix reinforcement i.e., Vf, size, gradient can be controlled by designing the appropriate preform. Reticulated graphite preform or carbon preform can be used but it is believed that it is preferable to use carbon perform instead of the reticulated graphite due to higher reactivity of the carbon as compared to the reticulated graphite. Three different Aluminium alloys were utilized for infiltration; Al - 10wt% Ti, Al - 25wt% Si and Al - 22wt% Si - 1.5wt%Mg - 1.5wt%Zn. Mg and Zn were added to the Al - Si alloy to study the effect of tertiary and quaternary addition on infiltration kinetics. The infiltration was done in a pressure casting facility with carbon perform, 27.5 mm diameter and 45 mm high. The preform was preheated to 1250oC and infiltrated with the selected alloys at 1150oC; the casting was held at 1150oC for 15 minutes and then cooled to room temperature.
3.3.8 Stir Casting Method of Fabrication of Mmcs

Stir Casting is a liquid state method of composite materials fabrication, in which a dispersed phase (ceramic particles, short fibers) is mixed with a molten matrix metal by means of mechanical stirring. The liquid composite material is then cast by conventional casting methods and may also be processed by conventional Metal forming technologies. [44] Stirrer Reinforcement T>Tm Molten Metal
Heating Coil
Fig 3.4: Melt Stirring Route

Page: 19
Speed of Rotation: The control of mould speed is very important for successful production of casting. Rotational speed also influences the structure, the most common effect of increase in speed being to promote refinement and instability of the liquid mass at very low speed. It is logical to use the highest speed consistent with the avoidance of tearing. Pouring Temperature: Pouring temperature exerts a major role on the mode of solidification and needs to determine partly in relation to type of structure required. Low temperature is associated with maximum grain refinement and equiaxed structures while higher temperature promotes columnar growth in many alloys. However practical consideration limits the range .The pouring temperature must be sufficiently high to ensure satisfactory metal flow and freedom from cold laps whilst avoiding coarse structures. Pouring speed: This is governed primarily by the need to finish casting before the metal become sluggish; although too high a rate can cause excessive turbulence and rejection. In practice slow pouring offers number advantages. Directional solidification and feeding are promoted whilst the slow development of full centrifugal pressure on the other solidification skin reduces and risk of tearing. Excessive slow pouring rate and low pouring temperature would lead to form surface lap. Mould Temperature: The use of metal die produces marked refinement when compared with sand cast but mould temperature is only of secondary importance in relation to the structure formation. Its principal signification lies in the degree of expansion of the die with preheating .Expansion diminishes the risk of tearing in casting. In nonferrous castings, the mould temperature should neither be too low or too high. The mould should be at least 25 mm thick with the thickness increasing with size and weight of casting. Mould Coatings: Various types of coating materials are used. The coating material is sprayed on the inside of the metal mould. The purpose of the coating is to reduce the heat transfer to the mould .Defects like shrinkage and cracking that are likely to occur in metal moulds can be eliminated, thus increasing the die life. The role of coating and solidification can be adjusted to the optimum value for a particular alloy by varying the thickness of coating layer. For Aluminium alloys, the coating is a mixture of Silicate and graphite in water. Mould Life: Metal mould in casting is subjected to thermal stresses due to continuous operation. This may lead to failure of the mould. The magnitude of the stresses depends on the mould thickness and thickness of the coating layer, both of which influence the production rate. Deterioration takes place faster in cast iron mould than in steel mould. [45] Stir Casting is characterized by the following features: 1. Content of dispersed phase is limited (usually not more than 30 vol. %). 2. Distribution of dispersed phase throughout the matrix is not perfectly homogeneous: Page: 20

There are local clouds (clusters) of the dispersed particles (fibers); There may be gravity segregation of the dispersed phase due to a difference in the densities of the dispersed and matrix phase.
3. The technology is relatively simple and low cost. [44]
3.4 Processing Of Insitu Intermetallic Composite

The conventional method of preparing IMCs is casting. A casting mold includes a melt-receiving mold cavity having a preformed metallic or intermetallic insert suspended therein by one or more first elongated, slender suspension members fixed at one end to the insert and at another end to the mold to locate the insert in a first direction in the mold and by one or more second elongated, slender suspension members fixed at one end to the insert and abutting the mold at another end to locate the insert in a second direction in the mold. A melt of metallic or intermetallic material is introduced into the mold cavity about the suspended insert and the suspension members and is solidified to form a composite casting. The casting is subjected to elevated temperature/elevated isostatic gas pressure conditions wherein the interface between the suspension members and the cast melt is effective to inhibit gas penetration between the insert and cast melt A method is described for preparing a refined or reinforced eutectic or hyper-eutectic metal alloy, comprising: melting the eutectic or hypereutectic metal alloy, adding particles of non-metallic refractory material to the molten metal matrix, mixing together the molten metal alloy and the particles of refractory material, and casting the resulting mixture under conditions causing precipitation of at least one intermetallic phase
Fig 3.5: Laboratory Technique of Melt Cast Route to Process Insitu Composite
from the molten metal matrix during solidification there of such that the intermetallics formed during solidification wet and engulf said refractory particles. The added particles may be very small and serve only to refine the precipitating intermetallics in the alloy or they may be larger and serve as reinforcing particles in a composite with the alloy. The products obtained are also novel. A discontinuously reinforced metal matrix composite wherein the reinforcing material is a particulate binary intermetallic compound is described along with methods for preparing the Page: 21

same. Metal matrixes reinforced with discontinuous intermetallic particles may be prepared by cooling a molten alloy, minimally comprising the primary matrix metal and a sufficient quantity of the other metal, wherein the other metal is a metal capable of forming an intermetallic compound with the primary matrix metal, to precipitate the intermetallic compound as a particulate. The rate at which the molten alloys of desired composition are cooled determines the size of the resultant intermetallic particles dispersed in the metal matrix. The size of these intermetallic particles is inversely related to the cooling rate of the alloy. That is high cooling rates produce small intermetallic particle sizes while low cooling rates produce large intermetallic particles. Routine experimental methods well known to those skilled in the art may be used to identify those cooling rates that result in dispersed intermetallic particles having the desired particle size. The cooling rates required to produce the intermetallic particle sizes of the invention are typically very rapid. Such high cooling rates may be obtained using gas atomization of the alloy. [58] Alternatively, it may be possible to utilize other rapid cooling methods such as, but not limited to, splat cooling. The binary intermetallic compound includes the same type of metal as is the principal matrix metal in combination with one other metal. The particle size of the particulate binar intermetallic compound ma be less than about 20 m and ma be between about 1 m and about 10 m. he intermetallic particles ma be present in the discontinuousl reinforced metal matrix composites in an amount ranging from about 10% to about 70% by volume. The discontinuous reinforced metal matrix composites of the invention may be used in structures requiring greater strength and stiffness than can be provided by matrix metal alone. Scott invents an intermetallic composite and method of making an intermetallic composite is disclosed comprising a porous titanate perform of the formula i Oz, where represents an element reducible by molten Aluminium to form an aluminate of the formula AjOk. [45] An Aluminium based metal matrix composite is produced from a charge containing a rapidly solidified Aluminium alloy and particles of a reinforcing material present in an amount ranging from about 0.1 to 50 percent by volume of the charge. The rapidly solidified ribbon is the product of a melt spinning process selected from the group consisting of jet casting or planar flow casting. In such processes, which are conventional, the melt spun ribbon is produced by injecting and solidifying a liquid metal stream onto a rapidly moving substrate. The ribbon is thereby cooled by conductive cooling rates of at least about 105/sec and preferably in the range of 105 to 107/sec. Such processes typically produce homogeneous materials, and permit control of chemical composition by providing for incorporation of strengthening dispersoids into the alloy at sizes and volume fractions unattainable by conventional ingot metallurgy. [57] A metal matrix composite is formed by contacting a molten matrix alloy with a permeable mass of filler material or preform in the presence of an infiltrating atmosphere. Under these conditions, the molten matrix alloy will spontaneously infiltrate the permeable mass of filler material or preform under normal atmospheric pressures. Once a desired amount of spontaneous infiltration has been achieved, or during the spontaneous infiltration step, the matrix metal which has infiltrated the permeable mass of filler material or preform is directionally solidified. The directionally solidified metal matrix composite may be heated to a temperature in excess of the liquidus temperature of the matrix metal and quenched. This technique allows the production of spontaneously infiltrated metal matrix composites having improved microstructures and properties. The Aluminium- iron ore metal matrix composite was prepared by stir casting route. Page: 22
Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite 3.5 Interaction between Matrix and Precipitate at High Temperature
The product of interaction between Al and iron Fe3Al at elevated temperature has a wide range of applications in refractory, structural and electronics. If the interfacial region between the reactant compounds is examined using analytical techniques; the formation of Fe 3Al as the interfacial compound is described. The thermodynamics of the Al Fe O system is explained as it relates to the particular conditions for the Al Fe3Al reaction research. Thermodynamic principles have been used to demonstrate that the formation of Fe3Al is favored instead of other FexAly compounds for the set of conditions outlined in this thesis. A study of the mechanism of interactions in the interfacial region can help towards being able to determine the reaction kinetics that lead to the control of microstructure and thus an improvement in the material performance. The formation of Fe3Al at the interface is a result of the reduction reaction between Fe 2O3 and Al. The O released during the reduction of Fe2O3 has been investigated and demonstrated to partly remain dissolved in Fe3Al at the interfacial region. Some O reacts with Al as well to form crystalline Al2O3 in the interfacial layer. [53-56, 59] The interaction between Al and Fe2O3 yields Fe3Al and possibly another compound at the interface. The interfacial layer was found to be continuous; but the thickness was not uniform. The interfacial region physically separated the surfaces that were in contact with each other. Such an interfacial layer could act as a self-formed barrier against the diffusion of the reacting species towards each other; for example, the diffusion of Al towards the Fe2O3 substrate, and the diffusion of Fe or O towards the Al film. The self-formation of the diffusion barrier between the reacting components would be useful in structural applications and in electronic device applications. It was necessary to understand the nucleation and growth of the interfacial compound that would be the outcome of the interaction between the two surfaces in contact at elevated temperature. Presence of magnesium enhances the diffusivity of Fe atom through the matrix by increasing wettability. So in case of our project the magnesium addition that we have preferred due to support the diffusion and for the solid solution strengthening of Al matrix. The formation process of the interfacial compound (FeAl) could be described in the following way: Step I: Melted Al was in contact with the Fe2O3 substrate at elevated temperature. Step II: Al diffused into the Fe2O3 substrates more quickly through the stacking faults in the Fe2O3 substrate. Step III: At the stacking faults, Fe2O3 is reduced by Al to form Fe and O. Fe reacts with Al near the stacking fault sites to form Fe3Al. These kind of stacking fault sites are accelerated formed due to addition of a high amount of Mg. Step IV: The interfacial region containing Fe3Al grows near the stacking fault sites into the Fe2O3 substrate. [60-62]
3.6 Metal-Matrix Composite Spectromicroscopy
[63]
Composite materials appear everywhere in life, both man-made (such as fiberglass) and biologically produced (like mammalian bones). The purpose of a composite man-made material is to alter and improve the properties of the matrix material, by the addition of some second material with very different chemical and structural properties. Examples of an important area of composite research are metal-matrix composites, in which a metallic host material is modified Page: 23

through the addition of a ceramic. The ceramic may be in the form of particles or fibers. The goal is to supplement the desirable properties of the metal, such as ductility, by the addition of a ceramic, which can improve the performance of the material in its final application. Common goals in the creation of new metal-matrix composites are to achieve increases strength reduced friction or prevent corrosion. There are many fundamental microscopic issues that are important in metal-matrix composites that typically deal with the chemistry of the interface between the alloy matrix and the ceramic, which may be in the form of a particle, fiber, or whisker. Typical concentrations of ceramic range from 10-20%, with particle size ranging from a few microns to more than 100 microns in diameter. We have begun some spectromicroscopy studies of SiC fiber reinforced Ti alloys, which illustrate the kind of information one can get, by studying the changes in the chemistry of the matrixceramic interface. Certain failure modes of the composites will be determined by the adhesion of the metal matrix to the fiber surface. Also, the interaction of the metal with the fiber as a function of temperature and time is a major factor in determining the life cycle of a composite, and its suitability for processing. A sequence of XPEEM images of SiC reinforced Ti alloy is shown in the figure above, from recent work using the PRISM x-ray emission microscope at the Spectro Microscopy Facility. These images are taken at certain photon energies, which create good chemical contrast between different regions of the composite. The fiber itself is rather complex, consisting of a central core region of pyrolitic carbon, a region of SiC, and an outer layer consisting mostly of carbon, with some small SiC inclusions. All of these regions are easily distinguished in the x-ray micrographs, and the elemental composition of the various regions can be used to preferentially enhance the emission from one area or the other. This is done by selecting a photon of energy near the absorption edge of Si, C or Ti respectively. We get chemical information from small areas of the sample using microXANES. XANES stands for x-ray absorption near-edge structures, and is an x-ray absorption fine-structure spectroscopy (XAFS). It tells us about the chemical state of the material. The microXANES spectra from each region of the metal-matric composite contain sharp structures that aid in determining the chemical composition. For example, the C K-edge spectra are very different for C in the central core of the fiber, in the SiC region, and in Ti, reflecting the bond changes from graphitic, to carbidic species. No Ti is found in the fiber region for this sample. Interesting changes occur in these composites when they are heat-treated. The heat treatment causes reactions to take place between the fiber and the Ti alloy matrix. Concentration profiles develop indicating substantial migration of Si, C, and Ti, from one region of the sample to another. The diffusion is very non-uniform, with different behavior for all three elements. Metal-matrix composites like these have been studied by other techniques, including transmission electron microscopy with energy loss spectroscopy (TEM-EELS), electron probe x-ray spectroscopy and scanning Auger microscopy. The unique advantage we can offer is the enhanced ability to detect the chemical state of reaction products at interfaces, directly, by XANES and XPS spectroscopy. For example, one study of SiC-Al MM s found an increase of ox gen signals in various parts of the sample, but could not directly say what was happening: Aluminium oxide formation, hydroxide, silicon oxide, or organic oxygen? We can answer such questions easily with the chemical-shift and fingerprinting of XANES and XPS.
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Chapter 4
EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE
Preparation of Insitu Metal Matrix Composite by MeltCast Route Characterizations of Metal Matrix Composite
Page: 25
CHAPTER 4: EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

The experimental procedure in this thesis has been classified and described under the following heads. 1. Preparation of the insitu MMC by Melt-Cast route. 2. Characterization of the insitu metal matrix composites.
4.1 Preparation of insitu Metal Matrix Composite by MeltCast Route

For preparing 10 Vol% Iron aluminide (Fe3Al) and Alumina reinforced Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite following materials are taken: Commercially pure Aluminium Pure Aluminium (Al) powder Micron size Fe2O3 (Iron Oxide) Magnesium cake
First of all the Iron Oxide (Fe2O3) powder is taken into the ball mill as the required amount (50 g) with respect to the amount of Aluminium (Al) taken for the melting to produce 10 vol% Al2O3 & Fe3Al reinforced Aluminium metal matrix composite. The ball mill (wet process) is run for 35 hours to prepare nano size (30 to 40 nm) Fe2O3 powder. Toluene is used in this process for wet medium. Hence after completion of ball mill operation toluene is evaporated by hot oven at the temperature range of 75 150 oC. Now after evaporation of Toluene the nano size Fe2O3 powder is taken out from the oven and intimate mixture of nano size iron oxide powder are preheated in a sealed Aluminium tube at 550 for 1 hour and finall raised to 600 just before addition. 50 g Mg is taken in the form of small cakes for the addition during melting to increase the wettability of the reinforcement in the Al matrix and to prevent Al loss. It is considered here that due to loss of ignition only 10-15 g Mg will go into the solution. That will lead a 2-3 vol% of Mg addition. On the other hand the commercially pure Aluminium (500 g) is taken in a graphite crucible and put into a furnace at 750 oC. When solid Aluminium is melt then Flux is added for preventing it from oxidation. After 15 minutes holding when the preheated tubes containing the iron oxide are put into the molten Aluminium then a splashing reaction takes place. The magnesium is added at this time. Starring of the metal is done by a drill gun. As it is an exothermic reaction the furnace temperature suddenly increases upto 1000-1100 . Due to the high temperature, some amount of Al gets oxidized; therefore additional amount of Al is taken into account whereas this additional amount of Al is also used for the dilution of the reinforcement. Thus the molten composite is produced and poured into the metal mould. The following reactions are expected to be taken place during melting. Fe2O3 + Mg FeO + MgO Al + FeO Fe3Al + Al2O3 Al2O3 + Mg MgO + Al Now this Fe3Al particles present there as the major reinforcement with very small amount of MgO and Al2O3 particles. Page: 26
Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite 4.2 Characterizations of Metal Matrix Composite
The composite samples so prepared were characterized extensively by Microhardness measurement, tensile test, Impact test, optical microscopy.
4.2.1 Tensile Test

For tensile testing the sample is given to some thermal as well as thermo mechanical treatment. The sample is hot rolled twice giving 30% deformation in each case. Then specimens used in a tensile test are prepared according to the standard specifications. The test pieces can be flat. Fig 4.1 shows the standard dimensions of a typical flat specimen. It is gripped into two ends and
Fig 4.1: Flat tensile Specimen

pulled apart in a machine (INSTRON TENSILE TESTING MACHINE) by the application of a load. The stress-strain curve obtained from the tensile of a typical ductile metal is shown in the figure 2.2. On the axis, the engineering stress , defined as load P divided b the original cross-sectional area A0 of the test piece is plotted. The engineering strain , defined as the change in length L divided by the initial gauge length L0 is plotted on the x-axis. The % elongation is obtained by multiplying the engineering strain by 100. The stress- strain curve starts with elastic deformation. The stress is proportional to strain in this region, as given b HOOKS LAW. At the end of the elastic region, plastic deformation starts. he engineering stress corresponding to this transition is known as the yield strength (YS), an important design parameter. Many metals exhibit a continuous transition from the elastic region to the plastic region. In such cases, the precise determination of the yield strength is difficult. A parameter called proof strength (or offset yield strength) that corresponds to a specified permanent set is used. After loading up to the proof stress level and unloading, the specimen shows a permanent elongation of 0.1% or 0.2%. The stress strain curve has a positive slope in the plastic region, indicating that the stress required causing further deformation increases with increasing strain, a phenomenon known as work hardening or strain hardening.
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Fig 4.2: Conventional Stress Strain Curve

The engineering stress reaches a maximum and then decreases. The maximum value is known as ultimate tensile strength (UTS) or simply the tensile strength. Up to the UTS, the strain is uniformly distributed along the gauge length. Beyond UTS, somewhere near the middle of the specimen, a localized decrease in cross-section known as necking develops. Once the neck forms, further deformation is concentrated in the neck. The strain is no longer uniform along the gauge length. The cross-sectional area of the neck continuously decreases, as the % elongation increases. Voids nucleate in the necked region at the interface of hard second-phased particles in the material. These voids grow and coalesce, as the strain increases. The true cross-section bearing the load becomes very small, as compared to the apparent cross-section, due to the growth of these internal voids. At this stage, the specimen may fracture.
4.2.2 Micro hardness test

Hardness is the property of materials by virtue of which it offers resistance to scratch, indentation or rebound and accordingly they are called scratch hardness, indentation hardness and rebound hardness respectively. The instrument used is Leica VMHT micro hardness tester. The values calculated according to the following formula from the test load at the time when the test surface is indented and the surface area obtained from the lengths of the diagonals of the indentation by the use of Diamond indenter in the form of right pyramid with a square base having the angle between the opposite faces of 136o. Page: 28
( ) Where HV=Vickers hardness F=Test Load S=Surface area of indentation (mm2)
d=mean value of the diagonal of the indentation (mm). =Angle between the opposite faces at the vortex of Diamond indenter.
In the case where the unit of test loads F is in kgf, Vickers hardness shall be calculated according to the following formula:-( ) ( ) ( ( ) ) ( ) ( ( ( ) ) )
Fig 4.3: LEICA VHMT Micro hardness Tester
Page: 29

Samples were placed on the platform of the hardness tester and hold the sample vie a vice. Then samples were focusing using 500X magnification. A place was fixed for taking Vickers hardness. Hardness was taken at two different positions, one in the matrix and another in the particle rich region. Two loads were used (i.e. 25 gf and 10 gf) in the two different micro hardness tester. Photography of selected samples were done with impression on microstructure on rolling and cross-sectional surface at 500X magnification with NOVA BLACK and White Film(125 ASA).
4.2.3 Charpy Impact Testing

The ordinary Charpy test measures the total energy absorbed in fracturing the specimen.
Fig 4.4: Charpy Impact Testing Machine

Additional information can be obtained if the impact tester is instrumented to provide a load-time history of the specimen during the test. With this kind of record it is possible to determine the energy required for initiating fracture and the energy required for propagating fracture. It also yields information on the load foe general yielding, the maximum load and the fracture load. Page: 30

If the velocity of the impacting pendulum can be assumed constant throughout the test then Where V0 = initial pendulum velocity P = instantaneous load T=time
However the assumption of a constant pendulum velocit v is not valid, for v decreases in proportion to the load on the specimen. It is usually assumed that Et = E (1 - ) Where Et = the total fracture energy =E / 4E0 where E0 is the initial energy of the pendulum
The impact testing is done with the sub sized samples having dimensions 55mm X 10mm X 5mm.
4.2.4 Microstructural study Optical Microscopy

As the metals are opaque in nature, they can be viewed under an optical microscope only in the reflected light. In the optical microscope, Fig 4.5, light from a source is reflected by a semi-silvered glass kept at 45o tilt, passes through the objective on to the specimen surface. It is reflected back by the metal surface and partly transmitted through the semi-silvered glass to the eyepiece. A metallograph is an instrument in which the structure as seen under the microscope called the microstructure is photographed.
Fig 4.5: Optical Microscopy

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Composite samples were cut to a reasonable size. Samples were ground in two different directions i.e. one in the Rolling surface and another in the cross-sectional surface. To examine the metal specimen properly, the surfaces were polished to a high degree of reflectivity. This is done by polishing the surface on successively fine grades of emery papers. Final polishing is done on the cloth impregnated with a very fine powder of alumina. Samples were polished in coarse polishing wheels followed by fine polishing wheel. After polishing, the specimens were etched with a Kellers etchant *conc. HF (1ml) + conc. H l (1.5ml) + conc. HNO3 (2.5ml) + H2O (95ml)+. he grain boundaries are selectively attacked by the etchant, as they possess a higher energy than the interior of the crystal. Then the microstructural assessments were done under optical microscope. Samples were seen under the magnification of 100X. Photography was done on both Rolling surface and Cross-sectional surface at 100X magnification with Nova Black and White Film (125 ASA) Samples are examined under optical Carl Zeiss (Fig 4.6) Microscope under different magnification of 100X, 200X and 300X cutting after different treatment. Firstly as cast structure is observed and then on the 30% hot rolled sample is examined under optical microscope.
Fig 4.6: Carl Zeiss Optical Microscope
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Chapter 5
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

Prediction Through Optical Microscopy 2 Micro Hardness Measurements and Analysis Tensile Testing Charpy Impact testing
Page: 33
Chapter 5: RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

The samples give some important and interesting results on characterization. The results are thoroughly discussed below. This section contains the analysis through mainly four types of characterization techniques, viz, Prediction through optical microscopy, Micro hardness testing, Tensile testing, Impact testing. As our main objective of the project is to produce a superior quality of composite the will always compare the data with the subsequent data for the commercially pure Al, meanwhile there is always a possibility of forming Al-Mg intermetallic matrix to strengthen it. But for the different limitations we will compare it only with those of the values of commercially pure Aluminium.
5.1 Prediction through Optical Microscopy

Fig 5.1 - 5.7 shows the results of the optical microscopy done under different Magnifications at different areas. Fig 5.1 5.3 show the conditions of as cast samples, and Fig 5.4 - 5.7 show the structure of 30% hot rolled sample. It is very prominent from the microstructural analysis that the composite mainly consists of two major phases, the matrix which seemed to as the white phases and the black nodules which are supposed to be Iron Aluminide reinforcements. In 30% hot rolled samples the reinforcements are found to be more uniform. At 500X 30% hot rolled sample contains some very large black patches. Those are probably because of coalescence of the reinforcement particles due to long diffusion. Now it should also be mentioned that as the samples are not etched the grain boundaries are not so prominent.
Fig 5.1: Microstructure of Fe3Al Reinforced Al matrix insitu composite (As Cast Structure) Magnification: 100X Bright phase: Matrix Dark phase: Reinforcements
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Fig 5.4: Microstructure of Fe3Al Reinforced Al matrix insitu composite (30% hot rolled Structure) Magnification: 100X Bright phase: Matrix Dark phase: Reinforcements
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As we have the limitation that we cannot do EDX analysis as well as image analysis, we cannot get the confirmatory note about the matrix as well as the reinforcements. But it is clear from the microstructure that the ceramic and intermetallic particle reinforcements being more or less nodular in shape the composite must have superior mechanical properties.
5.2 Micro Hardness Measurements and Analysis

Table 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 summarize the results of the micro-hardness value of composite. The first two re for as cast sample and the third is for 30% hot rolled sample. The measurement of micro hardness using 10 g load gives very small indentation and the hardness values got from it very much localize hardness value not the bulk one. Hence the load is further increased to 25 g. It gives the more or less bulk hardness as the size of indentation is comparatively larger. From the optical micrographs it can be seen that the depth of penetration of the indenter in the matrix which is bigger as compared to the depth of penetration in the nodules. Therefore the hardness value of the flakes is much higher than the matrix. Table 5.3 also shows the micro-hardness values of pure Aluminium for comparison. The comparative studies shows that the in-situ metal matrix composite containing the Aluminium matrix and nodules is much harder than the pure Aluminium. Obs. No.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Sample ID
Load
Time Hardness of (VHN) Indentation

80 94.5 100.2 110 117.9 115.5 72.6 132.1 130.2 74.5 112.5 81.6 84.9 95.6 130.1 119.2 79.9 46.5* 126.2 38.7*
Remarks
The HVN values around or above 100 are got from the indentation of which the major parts are on reinforcement phases. The points are bolded in the table. The values marked star are eliminated from calculation as they show abrupt low values of HVN. The indentations corresponding to those points are on some irregular shaped black patches. They are most probably the irregular surface dimple created by the displacement of reinforcement during grinding from that point.
Fe3Al reinforced Al matrix composite (As Cast)
10 Grams
15 Seconds
Table 5.1: HVN Data For As Cast Sample (I)
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97.6 94 77.4 86.2 82.6 99.1 72.4 110.4 101.3 114.3 97.5 92 97.1 92.2 92.5 96.7 118.4 103.3 110.4 94.2
Obs. No.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Sample ID
Load
Remarks
Fe3Al reinforced Al matrix composite (As Cast)
The points, bolded here show the lowest values among all the HVN values. This is probably due to the highest part of the indentation at the matrix. Rest of all the data show the minimum amount of variation due to extended indentation size and get the bulk hardness as particular.
25 Grams
15 Seconds
Table 5.2: HVN Data For As Cast Sample (II)

64.7 75.7 84.6 65.8 78.9 87.2 75.4 68.9 77.5 74.6 75.8 76.9 65.3 81.8 82.3 71.2
Obs. No.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Sample ID
Load
Remarks
The obvious trademark of these observations is the lower variation range of the hardness values. The variation lies between minimum 64.7 HVN to the maximum 87.2 HVN. The indentations corresponding to the points, bolded here are taken surrounding the black patches which are supposed to be reinforced particles. The rest are taken exclusively on the white matrix. Now the more or less uniformity in hardness values are probably due to the
Fe3Al reinforced Al matrix composite (30% Hot rolled at 250oC)
25 Grams
20 Seconds
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17 18 19 20 67.6 66.2 75.6 79.9 diffusion which took place during the heat treatment and recrystallization during hot rolling.
Table 5.3: HVN Data For 30% Hot - Rolled Sample

Obs. No.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Sample ID
Load
Time Hardness Average of (VHN) VHN Indentation

60.5 61.6 61.9 61.7 62.5 61.1 62.4 61.5 61.2 61.7
Remarks
Commercially pure Aluminium (Annealed)
10 Grams
15 Seconds
61.6
As the hardness values are tested on commercially pure Aluminium grains, the hardness values are uniform.
Table 5.4: HVN Data for Commercially Pure Aluminium Sample

The main point that must be observed from the analysis of above data series that the improvement of the hardness values. Even the hardness of the matrix is quite above that of the commercially pure Al. This is typically because of the presence of Mg as in the solid solution with Al in the matrix phase. But for the limitations as EDX analysis is beyond our scope of facilities, we are not sure about the exact amount of Mg which goes into the solid solution. But it is for sure that the increment of matrix hardness is because of the Al Mg solid solution present in the matrix phase.
5.3 Tensile Testing

Table 5.5 summarizes the results of the tensile test analysis. It is evident from the comparative study of the result of the tensile test of pure Al and composite that the mechanical properties improve to a very reasonable extent. For Tensile Test a flat sample of cross sectional area 6.4 X 5.3 mm2 is used. The same results for commercially pure Al are given in Table 5.6 to compare. Specimen Label
Fe3Al reinforced Al matrix composite
Modulus (GPa)
55.1
YS (0.2%) (MPa)
138.88
Resi (0.2%) (J)

0.3
UTS (MPa)
255.14
UEL (%)
14.94
TEL (%)
18.27
Toughness (J)
33.5
Table 5.4: Tensile Data for Fe3Al Reinforced Al Matrix Composite (30% Hot Rolled At 250oC)
Page: 40
Fig 5.5: Tensile Curve for Fe3Al Reinforced Al Matrix Composite (30% Hot Rolled At 250oC)
Specimen Label
Commercially Pure Aluminium
Modulus (GPa)
46.5
YS (0.2%) (MPa)
43.35
UTS (MPa)
94.64
UEL (%)
21.38
TEL (%)
38.59
Toughness (J)
30.70
Table 5.7: Tensile Data for Commercially Pure Aluminium

From the above sets of observed data we can see that the composite has a very superior mechanical property as compare to that of commercially pure Aluminium. This is due to the presence of reinforced particles.
5.4 Charpy Impact testing

The impact toughness of the pure Aluminium and the composite was measured in the Charpy Impact tester. The result is shown in the Table 5.7. Three commercially pure Al sample is tested the load of 15mkg, 20 mkg and 25 mkg, whereas in case of composite the operation is done at 15mkg load. The subsequent result for the composite is shown in Table 5.8. Toughness measured (mkg) 8 8 8.2 Final Impact Toughness (mkg) 7.4 7.5 7.7
Sample
Load (mkg) 15 20 25
Error (mkg) 0.6 0.5 0.5
Commercially Pure Al Sample
Table 5.8: Impact Data for Commercially Pure Aluminium

Page: 41
Sample
Load (mkg) 15 15
Toughness measured (mkg) 3 3.1
Error (mkg) 0 0
Final Impact Toughness (mkg) 3 3.1
Fe3Al Reinforced Al Matrix Composite
Table 5.6: Impact Data for Fe3Al Reinforced Al Matrix Composite

As the experimental composite samples are sub sized sample, the data is not directly comparable with that of the commercially pure Aluminium. But we can get an idea about the impact toughness of the composite as compare to the standard Al sample. The experimental composite impact sample being thinner than the standard sample it will give comparatively lower values of Impact toughness due to some introduction of linear elasticity.
Page: 42
Chapter 6
CONCLUSIONS
Page: 43
CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSIONS
The microstructural analysis exhibits a more or less uniform distribution of reinforcement particles, mostly expected to be Iron Aluminide (Fe3Al) intermetallic in a continuous nice matrix of Al and some small amount of expected magnesium. The precipitations of reinforced particles are found to be very fine and very uniformly distributed along the grain boundaries. Microhardness values show that a very good improvement of Vickers number. After heat treatment the uniformity in hardness is a very exclusive set of property got to be concluded about superior properties of the composite. Tensile property also reviles a very good improvement in yield strength. It improves about two folds with compare to the commercially pure Aluminium. Though the overall ductility reduces the property is much enough superior to have an application for structural use. Ultimate Tensile Strength improves two and half times which is very much important. In case of commercially pure Al the Tensile strength is around 100 MPa whereas the composite shows a Tensile strength value of about 250 MPa. Regarding Charpy impact Value of sub sized sample of MMC Charpy impact value of 3.1 is no doubt very attractive. The produced MMC may be very much useful for aerospace application, structural applications etc. But response of the composite in various application environments should be tested. The corrosion properties, wear properties are very much important for these kinds of applications. If we consider corrosion property here is always a chance of formation of galvanic couple between matrix and reinforcements. On other hand regarding wear property the hard intermetallic embedded in soft matrix may act as a rough surface and during wear test the soft Al matrix may be eroded faster living behind the embedded hard intermetallic which may resist further wear of the matrix. We can predict a brittle and cleavage type of fracture as compared to the high ductile fracture of the pure Aluminium. The brittle and cleavage type fracture in the former is responsible for the low impact and tensile properties of the MMC. Due to insufficient facilities the XRD, EDX analysis cannot be carried out and hence the exact quantitative analyses about the constituents are not done rather being predicted.
Page: 44
Chapter 7
REFERENCES
Page: 45
CHAPTER 7: REFERENCES
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. http://www.machinedesign.com/bde/materials/composite/rvm/2d.ht R. J. Amserault and R. M. Fischer, Scr. Metal 17 (1983) M. F. Ashby Phil Mag. 21 (1970) G. S. Anisell in oxide dispersion strength edited b G. S. Anisell, .D. ooper and F. V. Lenel (Gardoa and Brcach New York 1968) R.M. Alkin Jr. JOM 1997, 35 Z.Fan, A.P Miodownik, L Chandresekaran and M Ward-Clore. J Mater. Science 29, 1127 (1994) Z. Fan H .J Niu , A.P.Miodownik, T.Saito & B. Canter J. Engg Mater. 127-131, 423 (1997). T.W Clyne & P. J Withers, An introduction to metal matrix composites, 2 nd edition (Cambridge university press) Cambridge 1997. K. Mussent, he development of second generation metal matrix composites Internal Home Page of T.U.Delft, The Netherlands, 1997. A. L. Geiger and J. A. Walker JOM 1991, 8 J. H. Brinkman, J Daszczyk and L Kategerman. Scripta mater, 1997, 37(3) 293
12. K. Subhash and K. Michael, Matar Sci, Engg. A 162, 153 (1993) 13. R. W. Rice J Mater. Sci 26, 6533 (1991) 14. A. Stanidav and A.S Nagelberg. J. A. Ceramic, SOC, 75, 447 (1992) 15. A. K. Kuruvilla, K. S. Prasad and Y. R. Mahajan, Scripta Metall. Mater 24, 873 (1990) 16. 17. 18. 19. I. Gotman and M. J Koczak , Mater Sci Engg A 187,189(1994) K. M. Lea and I. H. Moon, Mate Sci Engg A 185, 165(1994) H. Fakungea and X. G. Wang J Mater. Sci, 10 23(1991) F. Wagner, D. E. Garchi, A Krupp and N Clausses, J Eur Ceram Soc 19, 2229(1999)
20. R. E. Lachman, K Ewsuk and A. P. Tomvia, J. Am. Ceramic Soc. 79,27 (1996) 21. M. C. Breslim, J. Ringnalda, A. L. Marasco G. S Daehn and H. L. Fraster ceramic Engg Sci Proc 15, 104 (1994) 22. Z. Y. Ma and S. C. Tjong Metall Mater Traus 28A, 1931(1977) 23. Z. Y. MA and S. C. Tjong Mate Sci Engg A 256,120(1988) 24. Z. A. Muniv and U. A. Tamburini Mater Sci Rep 3,277 (1989) 25. H. X. Peng Z. Fan & D. Z. Wang. J Mater, Res. Vol 15, 1943 (2000) 26. Lu, L., Gokhale, A. B. and Abbaschian, R. Matls Sci and Eng, A144, (1991)11 27. M. J. Koczak and K. S. Kumar, In situ process for producing a composite containing refractor materials, U. S. Patent4, 808, 372 (1989) Page: 46

28. Rapp, R. A., Ezis, A, A, and Yurek, G. J. Met Trans, 4, (1973) 1283 29. Henagar, .H., Jr. Brinhall, J. L. and Herth, J. P, S nthesis of omposites In Situ using Displacement reactions, in ceramic engineering and science proceedings, Sept-Oct 1992, 16th Annual Conference of Composites and advanced ceramic materials 30. Fraser, H. L., The Ohio State University, unpublished research 31. J. W. Mc aull , An Historical and echnical Perspective on SHS, eram. Eng. Sci. Proc. 11 [9-10] 1137-81 (1990) 32. J. T. Burke, M. K. Aghajanian and M. A. Rocazella, Microstructures and properties of Discontinuous metal matrix composites formed by unique low cost presureless Infiltration processes, omorrows materials oda , Int. SAMPE S mpe. Series, 34-2440-54 (1989), also see M. K. Aghajanian, M. A. Rocazella, J. T. Burke, and S. D. Keek: The Fabrication of metal matrix composites b a presureless infiltration technique, J. Mater. Sci 26 33. M. K. Aghajanian, J. . Burke, D. R. White & A.S. Nagelberg, A new infiltration process for the fabrication of MM s, omorrows Materials oda , also SAMPE quarterl , International SAMPE symposium series, 34 817-23 (1989) 34. D. K. reber, S. D. Poste, M. K. Aghajanian and J. D. laar, AlN composite growth b nitidation of Aluminium allo s, eram Eng. Sci Proc 9[7-8] 975-982 (1988) 35. . D. laar, W. B. jhonson, . A. Anderson and G. J. Schirok , Microstructure and properties of platelete reinforced composites formed by Directed reaction of Zirconium with Boron arbide, eram, Eng. Sci, Proc 10 [7-8] (1989) .Johnson, Platelet reinforced ceramic composites made b Materials and Processing Report 4[1] 1-2 (April, 1989) Lanxide technolog ,
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37. W.B. Johnson, T. D. Claar and G. H. Schirok , preparation and processing of platelet reinforced ceramic by directed reaction of zirconium with Boron arbide, eram, Eng Sci Proc [7-8] (1989) 38. K. S. Kumar and S. K. Mannan, Nickel aluminide/ itanium diboride composites, Martin Marietta laboratories Rept. MML-Tr-88-66c, ONR contract No. N00014-85-c-0639, August, 1988 39. L. hristodolon, Engineered Metal Matrix Processing report, 4[1]3-4 (April, 1989) omposite microstructures; Materials and
40. Z. A. Munir, U. Anselmi -Tantowini reports, 3, (1989), 227-365. 41. H. J Feng, J. J. More, D. G. Wirth, he application of combustion synthesis in the production of dense ceramic composites, annual AcerSOc conference, incinnati, April 1992, to be published by AcerSoc 42. E. Ustundag, R. Subramanian, R. Dieckmann and S. L. Sass Insitu formation of metal-ceramic composites and ductile phase toughened ceramics b Reduction Reaction, In Situ Composites: Science and Technology, Proceedingd of Symposium of Composite materials, [97-113] October 1993 43. Subhas Khatri, Victori a Shtessel, Michael Koczak, A. P. Divecha and Jim Kerr, Net Shaped manufacturing of Aluminium matrix composites via reactive infiltration, In Situ composites:Science and Technology, Proceedingd of Symposium of Composite materials, [115-121] October 1993 Page: 47

44. http://www.substech.com/dokuwiki/doku.php?id=liquid_state_fabrication_of_metal_matrix _composites,retrieved on 6th May, 2010 45. Sarkar smarajit,Some studies on aluminium matrix in-situ composites produced by chemical reaction 46. L.Yaohui, H.Zengming, Y. Sirong., D.Goitian and L. Quinchun, J.Mater Sci. Engg. (1992) 47. S.Das, S.V.Prasad and T.R.Ramchandran, Mater. Science Engg. A-138(1991) 48. I. A. Ibrahim, F.A. Mohamad and E.J.Lavernia, J.Mater. Sci, 26 (1991) 49. B.Dutta, S. Mannika and M.K.Surappa, in Inorganic Matrix composites, M.K. surrappa, ed.TMS, Warrendala, PA, (1996) 50. William D. Callister. Jr. Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering, John Wile and sons 51. TechTrends, International Reports on Advanced Technologies: Metal Matrix Composites: Technology and Industrial Application, Innovation 128, Paris (1990) 52. D. L. McDanels, R. W. Jech, J. W. Weeton, Analysis of Stress-Strain Behavior of TungstenFiber-Reinforced Copper Composites, Trans. Metall. Soc. AIME 1965 53. Hunt JD, Jackson KA. Trans AIME 1967 54. Liu Z, Fredriksson H. Metall Mater Trans A 1996 55. Morimoto H, Nomura M, Ashida Y. J Japan Inst Metals 1995 56. S.D. Dunmead, D.W. Readey, C.E. Semler, J.B. Holt, Rep. UCRL-98773, Lawrence Livemore National Laboratory, 1988 57. J.B. Holt, Rep. UCRL-53258, Lawrence Livemore National Laboratory, 1982 58. Y. Miyamoto, K. Hirao, M. Koizumi, in: Proceedings of the International Symposium on Fundamental Research
59. Strategy in Development of New Materials for Efficient Energy Conversion, Osaka, 1987 60. P. Sahoo, M.J. Koczak, Mater. Sci. Eng. A131 (1991) 61. J. Pan, J.H. Li, H. Fukunaka, X.G. Ning, H.Q. Ye, Z.K. Yao, M. Yang, Composites Sci. Technol. 57 (1997) 62. J.J. Valencia, C. McCullough, J. Rosler, C.G. Levi, R. Mehrabian, in: P. Rohatgi, et al. (Eds.), Solidification of Metal Matrix Composites, Warrendale, PA, TMS, 1990 63. http://www.hut.fi/Units/PhysicalMetallurgy/English/now2.html
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Fabrication and Characterization of Iron Aluminide Reinforced Aluminiun Matrix Composite

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Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

2.5 Iron Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Composite as the choice

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

1.1. Metal Matrix Composite a brief:

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

1.2. Ex-situ Metal Matrix Composites

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites

1.4. Processing of MMCs

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

OBJECTIVE ONE OF THE POSSIBLE WAYS

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

CHAPTER 2: OBJECTIVE ONE OF THE POSSIBLE WAYS

2.1 Dispersion Strengthening Mechanism of Strengthened Composite

2.2 Strengthening Mechanism of Particulate Composite

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

2.4 In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites an overview

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

CHAPTER 3: LITERATURE SURVEY

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

3.2 Preparation of Particulate Composites

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

3.3 Processing Methods of In-Situ Metal Matrix Composites

3.3.1 Application of Reinforcement/ Matrix Pre-Treatment Strategy

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

3.3.2 Reactive Gas Injection Process

Fig 3.1: Schematic of the RGI synthesis laboratory approach

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

3.3.3 Displacement Reaction

3.3.4 XD and LANXIDE Insitu Composite Materials

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

3.3.5 Combustion Synthesis Process or Self Propagating HighTemperature Synthesis

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

3.3.6 In situ formation of metal-ceramic composites by Reduction Reaction [42]

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

3.3.8 Stir Casting Method of Fabrication of Mmcs

Fig 3.4: Melt Stirring Route

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

3. The technology is relatively simple and low cost. [44]

3.4 Processing Of Insitu Intermetallic Composite

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

3.6 Metal-Matrix Composite Spectromicroscopy

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

CHAPTER 4: EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

4.1 Preparation of insitu Metal Matrix Composite by MeltCast Route

4.2.1 Tensile Test

Fig 4.1: Flat tensile Specimen

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

Fig 4.2: Conventional Stress Strain Curve

4.2.2 Micro hardness test

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

( ) Where HV=Vickers hardness F=Test Load S=Surface area of indentation (mm2)

Fig 4.3: LEICA VHMT Micro hardness Tester

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

4.2.3 Charpy Impact Testing

Fig 4.4: Charpy Impact Testing Machine

Development of Fe - Aluminide Reinforced Al Matrix Nanocomposite

4.2.4 Microstructural study Optical Microscopy