The Role of Oxidation in Blowing Particle-Stabilised Aluminium Foams

Metal foams were produced by blowing gas into aluminium alloy melts. The effect of oxygen content of the blowing gas on composition and structure of the inner surface of the foam cells is studied by varying gas composition from argon, nitrogen and air to pure oxygen. Scanning Electron Microscopy, Auger Electron Spectroscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy are used to analyse the surfaces. Initially particle‐free melts are pre‐treated by bubbling air through them after which a certain degree of foam stability is achieved. The oxidation products are characterised by microscopy on such foams. Metal foams were produced by blowing gas into aluminium alloy melts and the effect of oxygen content of the blowing gas on composition and structure of the inner surface of the foam cells is studied. Scanning Electron Microscopy, Auger Electron Spectroscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy are used to analyse the surfaces. Initially particle‐free melts are pre‐treated by bubbling air through them after which a certain degree of foam stability is achieved.