Metal Matrix Composite

Metal matrix composites (MMC) are metals reinforced with other metal, ceramic, or organic compounds. Reinforcements are usually done to improve the properties of the base metal like strength, stiffness, conductivity, etc. Aluminum as matrix in particular have been vastly investigated, this is because of the diverse applications of aluminum due to its excellent properties. Material scientists always face a challenge when it comes to the tribological and mechanical properties of aluminum, as it exudes quite poor behavior in these aspects. Hence this work aims to improve the mechanical strength of Aluminum by reinforcing with Nickel and Silicon Carbide through powder metallurgy technique. Al-Ni-SiC composite with percentage of Ni fixed at 20% and SiC varied through 4, 6, and 8 wt.% in increments of 2% were fabricated via powder metallurgy technique. It was found that reinforcement of nickel and silicon carbide significantly improved the mechanical properties of the aluminum. Physical tests such as density and porosity before and after sintering for all samples were performed.