Investigation on Microstructural Characterization and Mechanical Behaviour of Aluminium 6061 – CSFA / Sicp Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites

The present research investigates the influence of reinforcements on microstructural and mechanical characterization of the developed hybrid aluminium matrix composites processed via the liquid state stir casting process The functionally graded Al6061 matrix alloy reinforced with the low-cost effective reinforcement of disposal wastage of Coconut shell Fly Ash (CSFA) and complimentary secondary SiC microparticles. The hybrid cast composites were fabricated by 4% CSFA and varying 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10wt. %SiC microparticles into the melt of Al6061 matrix. The microstructural effect on the polished surface of the produced hybrid composite was analyzed using an Optical microscope. Results revealed that the Al6061+ 4% CSFA +10%SiC composites exhibited an increased density than Al6061 + 0%CSFA+2%SiC composites. The measured hardness values and the UTS of the hybrid composites increased by 32.6% and 22.53% respectively. However, with the addition of secondary 10%SiC micro particle reinforcements to the Al6061–4%CSFA composite, the tensile strength was significantly exhibited to be decreased as compared to the 8%SiC reinforcement concentration. FESEM on the tensile fractured surface of the Al6061–4% CSFA - 8%SiC hybrid composite shown the better interfacial bonding strength and mixed mode of fracture has been noticed with minimal plastic deformation.