Influence of dual reinforcement (nano CuO + reused spent alumina catalyst) on microstructure and mechanical properties of aluminium metal matrix composite

In the quest of novel, reasonable and effective reinforcement, it is very hard to find rare combination of materials which attempts to accord and benefit each other. The exhausted waste spent catalyst from petroleum industries is experimented as a reinforcement obliging to the concept of reuse and recycle. In this investigation, aluminium metal matrix nano composite is to be synthesized by double stir casting method. Pure aluminium and Spent Alumina Catalyst (SAC) is chosen as matrix and primary reinforcement respectively. Nano CuO is added as secondary reinforcement to enhance the mechanical properties of aluminium spent alumina catalyst composite. The composites are synthesized as such, 10% SAC is reinforced to pure aluminium and the amount of nano CuO is varied 0.5%, 0.75%, 1%. Microstructural characteristics of cast composites and tensile samples is studied under Scanning Electron Microscope. There is no clogging of reinforcement materials (nano CuO and SAC) in the aluminium matrix. The mechanical properties of the composites are determined and compared with pure aluminium. There is an impact of dual reinforcement on aluminium matrix which is evident by the improvement in the mechanical properties of the composite. The optimum composition is Al + 10%SAC +1%nano CuO, which resulted in maximum increase in hardness (77%) and tensile strength (78%). •Reuse of Spent Alumina Catalyst (petroleum industrial waste) as a reinforcement.•Synthesis of Aluminium nano composite with Dual Reinforcement (Spent Alumina Catalyst + nano Copper Oxide) by Stir Casting.•Evaluation of microstructure and mechanical properties of newly synthesized composite.•Enhanced mechanical Properties.