Study on the incorporation of ceramic nanoparticles into the semi-solid A356 melt

In this study, the semi-solid vortex casting process and hot rolling were used for manufacturing of A356-1 wt% SiCnp and A356-1 wt% Al2O3np nanocomposites. In order to disperse nanoparticles in the melt, three kinds of composite powders including Cr-nanoparticle, Cu-nanoparticle, and Ti-nanoparticle were prepared using a high-energy ball-mill. These Cr, Cu, and Ti powders were utilized as deagglomerating and carrier agents for the nano ceramic powders in order to aid their uniform dispersion within the semi-solid melt. Microstructural characterization indicated that the titanium carrier agent showed a higher potential for releasing of nanoparticles within the semi-solid melt of A356 alloy, resulting in higher mechanical properties after the hot-rolling process. •Metallic carriers were used to disperse nanoceramic powders in the semi-solid melt.•Ti was the best carrier for nano ceramic powders injection into the melt.•12.4% ductility was observed in average for A356-SiCnp nanocomposite.