Engineering â€ș Mechanical Engineering

Aluminum Alloys Composites Properties

Description

This cluster of papers focuses on the science, technology, and applications of metal matrix composites, particularly exploring the reinforcement with nanoparticles such as graphene and carbon nanotubes. It delves into the mechanical properties, processing techniques, and microstructure of these composites, with a specific emphasis on aluminum alloy-based materials.

Keywords

Metal Matrix Composites; Reinforcement; Nanoparticles; Mechanical Properties; Graphene; Carbon Nanotubes; Processing Techniques; Microstructure; Friction Stir Processing; Aluminum Alloy

Metal matrix composites reinforced by nano-particles are very promising materials, suitable for a large number of applications. These composites consist of a metal matrix filled with nano-particles featuring physical and 
 Metal matrix composites reinforced by nano-particles are very promising materials, suitable for a large number of applications. These composites consist of a metal matrix filled with nano-particles featuring physical and mechanical properties very different from those of the matrix. The nano-particles can improve the base material in terms of wear resistance, damping properties and mechanical strength. Different kinds of metals, predominantly Al, Mg and Cu, have been employed for the production of composites reinforced by nano-ceramic particles such as carbides, nitrides, oxides as well as carbon nanotubes. The main issue of concern for the synthesis of these materials consists in the low wettability of the reinforcement phase by the molten metal, which does not allow the synthesis by conventional casting methods. Several alternative routes have been presented in literature for the production of nano-composites. This work is aimed at reviewing the most important manufacturing techniques used for the synthesis of bulk metal matrix nanocomposites. Moreover, the strengthening mechanisms responsible for the improvement of mechanical properties of nano-reinforced metal matrix composites have been reviewed and the main potential applications of this new class of materials are envisaged.
Despite advances made in composite materials, metals remain irreplaceable in many important applications. Despite advances made in composite materials, metals remain irreplaceable in many important applications.
AbstractParticle reinforced metal matrix composites are now being produced commerically, and in this paper the current status of these materials is reviewed. The different types of reinforcement being used, together 
 AbstractParticle reinforced metal matrix composites are now being produced commerically, and in this paper the current status of these materials is reviewed. The different types of reinforcement being used, together with the alternative processing methods, are discussed. Depending on the initial processing method, different factors have to be taken into consideration to produce a high quality billet. With powder metallurgy processing, the composition of the matrix and the type of reinforcement are independent of one another. However, in molten metal processing they are intimately linked in terms of the different reactivities which occur between reinforcement and matrix in the molten state. The factors controlling the distribution of reinforcement are also dependent on the initial processing method. Secondary fabrication methods, such as extrusion and rolling, are essential in processing composites produced by powder metallurgy, since they are required to consolidate the composite fully. Other methods, such as spray casting, molten metal infiltration, and molten metal mixing give an essentially fully consolidated product directly, but extrusion, etc., can improve the properties by modifying the reinforcement distribution. The mechanical properties obtained in metal matrix composites are dependent on a wide range of factors, and the present understanding, and areas requiring further study, are discussed. The successful commercial production of metal matrix composites will finally depend on their cost effectiveness for different applications. This requires optimum methods of processing, machining, and recycling, and the routes being developed to achieve this are considered.
Metal matrix composites provide significantly enhanced properties — like higher strength, stiffness and weight savings — in comparison to conventional monolithic materials. Particle reinforced MMCs are attractive due to their 
 Metal matrix composites provide significantly enhanced properties — like higher strength, stiffness and weight savings — in comparison to conventional monolithic materials. Particle reinforced MMCs are attractive due to their cost-effectiveness, isotropic properties, and their ability to be processed using similar technology used for monolithic materials. This review captures the salient features of experimental as well as analytical and computational characterization of the mechanical behavior of MMCs. The main focus is on wrought particulate reinforced light alloy matrix systems, with a particular emphasis on tensile, creep, and fatigue behavior.
AbstractAbstract<title/>This review summarises the research work carried out in the field of carbon nanotube (CNT) metal matrix composites (MMCs). Much research has been undertaken in utilising CNTs as reinforcement for 
 AbstractAbstract<title/>This review summarises the research work carried out in the field of carbon nanotube (CNT) metal matrix composites (MMCs). Much research has been undertaken in utilising CNTs as reinforcement for composite material. However, CNT-reinforced MMCs have received the least attention. These composites are being projected for use in structural applications for their high specific strength as well as functional materials for their exciting thermal and electrical characteristics. The present review focuses on the critical issues of CNT-reinforced MMCs that include processing techniques, nanotube dispersion, interface, strengthening mechanisms and mechanical properties. Processing techniques used for synthesis of the composites have been critically reviewed with an objective to achieve homogeneous distribution of carbon nanotubes in the matrix. The mechanical property improvements achieved by addition of CNTs in various metal matrix systems are summarised. The factors determining strengthening achieved by CNT reinforcement are elucidated as are the structural and chemical stability of CNTs in different metal matrixes and the importance of the CNT/metal interface has been reviewed. The importance of CNT dispersion and its quantification is highlighted. Carbon nanotube reinforced MMCs as functional materials are summarised. Future work that needs attention is addressed.Keywords: Carbon nanotubesMetal matrix compositesDispersionProcessingInterfacial phenomenaMechanical propertiesStrengtheningThermal properties
Significance For centuries it has been a challenge to avoid strength–ductility trade-off, which is especially problematic for ultrastrong ultrafine-grained metals. Here we evade this trade-off dilemma by architecting a heterogeneous 
 Significance For centuries it has been a challenge to avoid strength–ductility trade-off, which is especially problematic for ultrastrong ultrafine-grained metals. Here we evade this trade-off dilemma by architecting a heterogeneous lamella structure, i.e., soft micrograined lamellae embedded in hard ultrafine-grained lamella matrix. The heterogeneous deformation of this previously unidentified structure produces significant back-stress hardening in addition to conventional dislocation hardening, rendering it higher strain hardening than coarse-grained metals. The high back-stress hardening makes the material as strong as ultrafine-grained metals and as ductile as coarse-grained metals.
Metals can be processed to reach ultra-high strength, but usually at a drastic loss of ductility. Here, we review recent advances in overcoming this tradeoff, by purposely deploying heterogeneous nanostructures 
 Metals can be processed to reach ultra-high strength, but usually at a drastic loss of ductility. Here, we review recent advances in overcoming this tradeoff, by purposely deploying heterogeneous nanostructures in an otherwise single-phase metal. Several structural designs are being explored, including bimodal, harmonic, lamellar, gradient, domain-dispersed, and hierarchical nanostructures. These seemingly distinct tactics share a unifying design principle in that the intentional structural heterogeneities induce non-homogeneous plastic deformation, and the nanometer-scale features dictate steep strain gradients, thereby enhancing strain hardening and consequently uniform tensile ductility at high flow stresses. Moreover, these heterogeneous nanostructures in metals play a role similar to multiple phases in complex alloys, functionally graded materials and composites, sharing common material design and mechanics principles. Our review advocates this broad vision to help guide future innovations towards a synergy between high strength and high ductility, through highlighting several recent designs as well as identifying outstanding challenges and opportunities.
The current status of research and development on the structure and properties of nanocrystalline materials is reviewed. Nanocrystalline materials are polycrystalline materials with grain sizes of up to about 100 
 The current status of research and development on the structure and properties of nanocrystalline materials is reviewed. Nanocrystalline materials are polycrystalline materials with grain sizes of up to about 100 nm. Because of the extremely small dimensions, a large volume fraction of the atoms is located at the grain boundaries, and this confers special attributes to these materials.Nanocrystalline materials can be prepared by inert gas condensation, mechanical alloying, plasma deposition, spray conversion processing, and many other methods. These are briefly reviewed. A clear picture of the structure of nanocrystalline materials is only now emerging. Whereas the earlier workers had concluded that the structure of grain boundaries in nanocrystalline materials was quite different from that in coarse grained materials, recent studies have shown unambiguously that the structure of the grain boundaries is the same in both nanocrystalline and coarse grained materials.The properties of nanocrystalline materials are very often superior to those of conventional polycrystalline coarse grained materials. Nanocrystalline materials exhibit increased strength/hardness, enhanced diffusivity, improved ductility/toughness, reduced density, reduced elastic modulus, higher electrical resistivity, increased specific heat, higher thermal expansion coefficient, lower thermal conductivity, and superior soft magnetic properties in comparison with conventional coarse grained materials. New concepts of nanocomposites and nanoglasses are also being investigated with special emphasis on ceramic composites to increase their strength and toughness. There appears to be a great potential for applications in the near future for nanocrystalline materials. The extensive investigations in recent years on structure-property correlations in nanocrystalline materials have begun to unravel the complexities of these materials, and pave the way for successful exploitation of alloy design principles to synthesise better materials than hitherto available.
Aluminium hybrid composites are a new generation of metal matrix composites that have the potentials of satisfying the recent demands of advanced engineering applications. These demands are met due to 
 Aluminium hybrid composites are a new generation of metal matrix composites that have the potentials of satisfying the recent demands of advanced engineering applications. These demands are met due to improved mechanical properties, amenability to conventional processing technique and possibility of reducing production cost of aluminium hybrid composites. The performance of these materials is mostly dependent on selecting the right combination of reinforcing materials since some of the processing parameters are associated with the reinforcing particulates. A few combinations of reinforcing particulates have been conceptualized in the design of aluminium hybrid composites. This paper attempts to review the different combination of reinforcing materials used in the processing of hybrid aluminium matrix composites and how it affects the mechanical, corrosion and wear performance of the materials. The major techniques for fabricating these materials are briefly discussed and research areas for further improvement on aluminium hybrid composites are suggested.
ASM Handbook, Volume 2 is a comprehensive guide to nonferrous metals and alloys. It provides detailed information on compositions, properties, selection, and applications of major alloy groups, with particular emphasis 
 ASM Handbook, Volume 2 is a comprehensive guide to nonferrous metals and alloys. It provides detailed information on compositions, properties, selection, and applications of major alloy groups, with particular emphasis on aluminum, titanium, copper, and magnesium. A section on special-purpose materials examines alloys with outstanding magnetic and electrical properties, heat-resistant alloys, wear-resistant materials, shape memory alloys, and metal-matrix composites. Additional sections present manufacture and applications of materials used for superconductors, data compilations that describe the characteristics and properties of pure metals, recycling and reclaiming, and a detailed review of the toxic effects of metals. The volume contains 62 articles written by 150 technical experts and includes 1,800 illustrations and 1,200 tables. For information on the print version of Volume 2, ISBN 978-0-87170-378-1, follow this link.
TiB 2 /Mg-4Al-1.5Si composites were subjected to hot extrusion and subsequent annealing, and the creep resistance of the extruded composites (Ex-COM) was compared with that of the annealed composites (EA-COM) 
 TiB 2 /Mg-4Al-1.5Si composites were subjected to hot extrusion and subsequent annealing, and the creep resistance of the extruded composites (Ex-COM) was compared with that of the annealed composites (EA-COM) and as-cast composites (Cast-COM). Grain refinement and numerous low-angle grain boundaries (LAGBs) within elongated deformed grain resulted in a decreased creep resistance for the Ex-COM, with a steady-state creep rate increasing by 4.8 times compared to the Cast-COM. A slightly coarsened but more uniform equiaxed grains, which have high-angle grain boundaries (HAGBs), led to the optimal creep resistance for the EA-COM. The creep mechanism is primarily dominated by grain boundary sliding for the Ex-COM, while it is possibly controlled by the co-effect of dislocation climb and second-phase strengthening effect for the EA-COM.
This study examines the mechanical and microstructural properties of graphene-reinforced AA2219 composites developed for hydrogen storage tank inner liner applications. A novel processing route combining high-energy ball milling, ultrasonic-assisted stir 
 This study examines the mechanical and microstructural properties of graphene-reinforced AA2219 composites developed for hydrogen storage tank inner liner applications. A novel processing route combining high-energy ball milling, ultrasonic-assisted stir casting, and squeeze casting was used to achieve homogeneous dispersion of 0.5 wt.% graphene nanoplatelets and minimise agglomeration. The composites were subjected to T6 and T8 ageing treatments to optimize their properties. Microstructural analysis revealed refined grains, uniform Al2Cu precipitate distribution, and stable graphene retention. Mechanical testing showed that the as-cast composite exhibited a UTS of 308.6 MPa with 13.68% elongation. After T6 treatment, the UTS increased to 353.6 MPa with an elongation of 11.24%. T8 treatment further improved the UTS to 371.5 MPa, with an elongation of 8.54%. Hardness improved by 46%, from 89.6 HV (as-cast) to 131.3 HV (T8). Fractography analysis indicated a shift from brittle to ductile fracture modes after heat treatment. The purpose of this work is to develop lightweight, high-strength composites for hydrogen storage applications. The novelty of this study lies in the integrated processing approach, which ensures uniform graphene dispersion and superior mechanical performance. The results demonstrate the suitability of these composites for advanced aerospace propulsion systems.
The performance of functionally graded materials is much better than materials with unchanged properties and compositions. Al-Cr-Fe alloys with different Cr concentrations were proposed for this work. Potential applications for 
 The performance of functionally graded materials is much better than materials with unchanged properties and compositions. Al-Cr-Fe alloys with different Cr concentrations were proposed for this work. Potential applications for these materials include automotive pistons. FGM was fabricated by a successive stage of the sequential casting method with mechanical vibration during the solidification. The FGM sample consists of two alloys with different chemical compositions (Al-8Si-2Fe) and (Al-2Cr-2Fe). Two types of samples were studied and compared, with and without mold vibration. The method of mechanical mold vibration, which in turn reduces the segregation and pores in the cast and refines the microstructure. The results of the XRD showed the presence of α-Al phase, Al₈₀Cr₁₃.₅Fe₆.₅, Al₁₃Cr₂, and Al₁₃Fe₄ compounds that enhance the strength of the alloy. Optical microscope images showed a difference in the microstructure at both sides of the interface between the two alloys. There is variation in the hardness values ​​due to the difference in the chemical composition of the alloys. The recorded improvement in the tensile strength was 17%, and a decrease in Compression by 1.5%.
Abstract The material cutting mechanism was investigated under the impact of the ratio of amplitude, temperature, phase angle, and the vibration frequency to mechanical attributes of AlCuNiTiZr high-entropy alloy materials 
 Abstract The material cutting mechanism was investigated under the impact of the ratio of amplitude, temperature, phase angle, and the vibration frequency to mechanical attributes of AlCuNiTiZr high-entropy alloy materials investigated during the multi-dimensional vibration cutting (MDVC) has been studied with the help of molecular dynamics models. This study aims to clarify the influence of factors affecting the material’s internal structure during cutting. As the shear amplitude and frequency increase, the average total force decreases. However, when considering MDVC, variations in phase angle have minimal impact on the average total force. The chip atom count further confirms that MDVC enhances the machined surface quality, particularly at higher vibration frequencies, smaller amplitude ratios, and optimized phase angles.
Abstract Metal matrix composites represent an interesting class of materials with an exclusive combination of properties. In this study, a unique Ag–W metastable metal matrix composite was produced from W@Ag 
 Abstract Metal matrix composites represent an interesting class of materials with an exclusive combination of properties. In this study, a unique Ag–W metastable metal matrix composite was produced from W@Ag core–shell powders using a spark plasma sintering technique at a temperature of 700 °C and a pressure of 80 MPa. The microstructures of a default powder and as-produced composite were observed by scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and electron backscatter diffraction. As expected, the composite is characterized by a dual microstructure: a soft matrix of pure Ag with a submicrometer grain size reinforced by W particulates with a grain size of up to 30 ÎŒm. In addition, tensile and compression tests were performed with a deformation rate of 10 –3 s −1 at ambient temperature. The value of the compression yield stress of Ag–W MMC is higher than the compression yield stress of pure Ag by approximately 467%. Observation of the microstructure of the deformed composite material revealed that the interface between the matrix and the reinforced particles is the weakest place, which is a key factor influencing the performance and properties of the composite material. Graphical Abstract
Abstract This study investigated the influence of silicon carbide (SiC) reinforcement content on the thermophysical properties of aluminium-based metal matrix composites (Al-MMCs). Different Al-MMCs with SiC contents ranging from 0 
 Abstract This study investigated the influence of silicon carbide (SiC) reinforcement content on the thermophysical properties of aluminium-based metal matrix composites (Al-MMCs). Different Al-MMCs with SiC contents ranging from 0 to 30 mass/% were produced by stir casting to gather relevant data for the material database of brake rotor casting simulations. The thermal diffusivity, coefficient of thermal expansion, and specific heat capacity were measured from room temperature to 500 °C to calculate the thermal conductivity of the composites. The results showed that the amount and distribution of SiC particles significantly influenced the performance of the composites, with the interface between the metal and ceramic playing a crucial role in their thermal behaviour. The experimental data aligned well with the predicted values when considering property variations. This study highlights the potential of Al-MMCs to replace traditional materials in applications requiring thermal management, wear resistance, and durability, such as brake discs in internal combustion engines and electric vehicles. These findings provide valuable data for the material database utilised in thermal management and casting simulations where Al-MMC components are employed, such as automotive brake-rotor-casting simulations, and contribute to sustainable and efficient mobility solution development. Graphical abstract
Aluminum and its alloys are versatile materials with inherent properties that can be enhanced through alloying. Powder metallurgy (PM) enables the production of high‐strength alloys from elemental powders, which are 
 Aluminum and its alloys are versatile materials with inherent properties that can be enhanced through alloying. Powder metallurgy (PM) enables the production of high‐strength alloys from elemental powders, which are compacted, sintered, and calibrated to the final dimensions. In this article, recycled aluminum powder is used to produce aluminum alloy 2124 via PM. The samples are compacted at 700 MPa and sintered at 550, 575, and 600 °C. Microstructural and mechanical characterizations are performed, including Thermo‐Calc modeling, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, compression, and hardness tests. The results indicate that the optimal sintering temperature for achieving maximum relative density is 550 °C, with a peak value of 98%. However, the sintering condition that exhibited the best mechanical performance and microstructural balance is 575 °C. Compared to the primary aluminum alloy, the recycled AA2124 exhibits superior relative density and enhances compressive strength, reaching an ultimate strength of 380 MPa and 33% elongation at 575 °C. This improvement is attributed to a well‐balanced microstructure characterized by a refined distribution of precipitates, enhanced dispersion, and effective densification.
A eutectic particle‐reinforced ferrite–steel matrix composite (SMC) is prepared through traditional smelting and casting methods. The evolution of eutectic TiC particles in the SMC during controlled rolling is studied, and 
 A eutectic particle‐reinforced ferrite–steel matrix composite (SMC) is prepared through traditional smelting and casting methods. The evolution of eutectic TiC particles in the SMC during controlled rolling is studied, and the fracture mechanism of the SMC under tensile testing is investigated. Experimental results indicate that the eutectic particles in the ingot primarily exhibit irregular flake structures with a grain boundary‐like distribution. The dispersed redistribution and refinement of the eutectic particles, achieved through fracture and fragmentation, are facilitated by the rolling force, as well as the flow and the deformation of the matrix. High ductility (33 ± 1.5%) is achieved for the SMC due to the strong bonding interface between the eutectic particles and the ferrite matrix. In situ observations indicate that stress concentration tends to occur between the eutectic TiC particles and the matrix during the tensile process. The eutectic TiC particles begin to debond and fracture when the tensile curve reaches its peak. Eutectic particles do not act as effective crack sources during the initial stages of the tensile test, and the ductility of the SMC is primarily dependent on the matrix. The primary fracture mechanism involves voids generated by stress concentration connecting to form a macroscopic fracture.
Aluminum hybrid composites are widely used in various engineering applications due to their excellent balance of mechanical strength, low weight, and enhanced wear resistance. These materials are especially valued in 
 Aluminum hybrid composites are widely used in various engineering applications due to their excellent balance of mechanical strength, low weight, and enhanced wear resistance. These materials are especially valued in areas where components are subjected to continuous friction and require long-lasting performance. This project aims to evaluate and improve the wear behavior of such composites under dry sliding conditions using systematic testing and analysis methods. This study focuses on the optimization of dry sliding wear behavior of aluminum-based hybrid composite materials reinforced with silicon carbide (SiC) and graphene. These two particles are added to improve the strength, hardness, and wear resistance of the material. To study the effect of different factors like load, sliding speed, and distance on the wear rate, experiments were planned using the Taguchi method, which helps in reducing the number of trials while still giving reliable results. After conducting the tests, regression analysis was used to develop a mathematical model and understand how each factor affects the wear performance. The results showed that the addition of SiC and graphene improves the wear resistance of the aluminum matrix significantly. This study also helps in identifying the best combination of parameters to reduce material loss due to wear. The findings can be useful for applications like automotive and mechanical parts, where materials are exposed to continuous friction and need to last longer. The conclusions drawn from this work highlight the effectiveness of combining reinforcements and optimizing parameters to significantly reduce wear. The study successfully demonstrates a practical approach to improving the performance of aluminum hybrid composites under dry sliding conditions.
In this study, hybrid composite materials were fabricated using a Scalmalloy¼ matrix with fixed multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT, 0.8%) content and varying titanium carbide (TiC; 5%, 10%, 15%) reinforcements via 
 In this study, hybrid composite materials were fabricated using a Scalmalloy¼ matrix with fixed multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT, 0.8%) content and varying titanium carbide (TiC; 5%, 10%, 15%) reinforcements via the hot-pressing method. Unlike conventional approaches in the literature that utilize additive manufacturing, this research presents the first successful production of Scalmalloy¼-based hybrid composites through a traditional powder metallurgy method. This method enabled the development of a more homogeneous and equiaxed microstructure. The composites were characterized using SEM, EDS, MAP, and XRD analyses, along with density and microhardness measurements. Mechanical performance was evaluated through Vickers hardness and transverse rupture strength (TRS) tests, while dry sliding wear behavior was examined in detail. The hardness of the 15% TiC + 0.8% MWCNT-reinforced composite increased from 87 HV to 181 HV (a 108% improvement), and TRS increased from 354 MPa to 545 MPa (a 54% improvement). Additionally, wear surface examinations showed that as the reinforcement ratio increased, the severity of surface damage decreased and abrasive wear mechanisms became more dominant. These findings demonstrate that hybrid reinforcement with TiC and MWCNT significantly enhances both mechanical and tribological performance, offering a promising alternative to additive manufacturing for Scalmalloy¼-based composite production.
The integration of hybrid reinforcements into aluminum matrix composites has opened new avenues for enhancing mechanical and wear properties in structural applications. This study presents a comprehensive finite element analysis 
 The integration of hybrid reinforcements into aluminum matrix composites has opened new avenues for enhancing mechanical and wear properties in structural applications. This study presents a comprehensive finite element analysis (FEA) of AA6016 aluminum alloy reinforced with silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) and titanium diboride (TiB₂) using ANSYS simulation software. The hybrid composite was modeled with varying reinforcement weight fractions (2.5%, 5%, and 7.5%) to evaluate its structural behavior under mechanical loading conditions. Material properties were defined based on experimentally validated data and literature sources. Static structural analysis was performed to examine the stress distribution, deformation, and equivalent von Mises stress under tensile and compressive loading. The simulation results revealed that the addition of Si₃N₄ and TiB₂ significantly enhanced the load-carrying capacity and reduced deformation compared to the base alloy. Furthermore, wear simulation indicated improved resistance due to the hard ceramic phases. The study demonstrates the potential of ANSYS-based modeling in predicting the mechanical performance of hybrid composites, offering valuable insights for material design and optimization in real-world engineering applications.
This research presents the results of different periods of T6 heat treatment (homogenization and artificial aging) for A356 aluminum alloy used in the fabrication of motorcycles. The samples were cast 
 This research presents the results of different periods of T6 heat treatment (homogenization and artificial aging) for A356 aluminum alloy used in the fabrication of motorcycles. The samples were cast using gravity die casting, and industrial furnaces for T6 were used in the experiment. Two heat treatment conditions were used, with a total time of 7 h and 12 h, and the results were compared with the alloy without heat treatment. The effects of the reduction of treatment time on mechanical behavior were evaluated in terms of hardness, Charpy and tensile tests, as well as morphological analysis of fractures and microstructural behavior via optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, measurement of eutectic Si evolution, and XRD. Excellent mechanical properties were achieved with a treatment period of 7 h, which achieved a yield strength of 226.58 (±3.76) MPa, tensile strength limit of 264.78 (±4.27) MPa and elongation of 3.41 (±0.47) %. This is competitive with other cast alloys subjected to T6 heat treatment in longer treatment cycles. The peak of hardness and highest impact resistance was recorded for the sample treated for 12 h; however, in the impact test, there was no significant difference between the two experiments.
&lt;div&gt;There is a critical need to understand and optimize the extrudability of AA6xxx alloys, which are widely used in industries such as automotive and aerospace due to their favorable combination 
 &lt;div&gt;There is a critical need to understand and optimize the extrudability of AA6xxx alloys, which are widely used in industries such as automotive and aerospace due to their favorable combination of strength, formability, and corrosion resistance. Surface cracking during the extrusion process remains a significant challenge, compromising the material’s mechanical properties and product quality. While previous studies have investigated surface cracking using various techniques, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive, especially regarding the role of important alloying elements such as copper. Therefore, this research provides a thorough investigation of the effect of copper additions on the solidus temperature, hot deformation behavior, and extrudability of AA6xxx alloys. Using experimental and numerical methods, the material’s solidus temperature and constitutive behavior were determined. Extrusion trials were conducted for alloys with different copper levels using a flat die over a range of extrusion speeds, with the resulting surface defects being examined. The findings indicate that although the copper content had little impact on the hot compression behavior, it did affect the solidus temperature. Alloys with a higher level of copper had a lower solidus temperature, and hence, the maximum extrusion speed for a given temperature was lower. Numerical simulations demonstrated that surface cracking occurred once the surface temperature of the alloy reached 96% of the solidus temperature. This study contributes to the optimization of extrusion processing by highlighting the role of copper in improving the extrudability of high-strength AA6xxx aluminum alloys, offering insights for developing higher-quality alloy products.&lt;/div&gt;
In this study, a hybrid metal matrix composite reinforced with a combination of ceramic (SiC) and agro-waste (CDA) particles is developed using stir-casting technique coupled with an ultrasonic transducer. Developed 
 In this study, a hybrid metal matrix composite reinforced with a combination of ceramic (SiC) and agro-waste (CDA) particles is developed using stir-casting technique coupled with an ultrasonic transducer. Developed samples were thoroughly examined on microstructural aspects using Optical Microscopy (OM), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) with elemental mapping, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, which revealed reinforcement particle presence and their homogeneous dispersion throughout the matrix. The synthesized samples were examined for their physical and mechanical characteristics, revealing that the porosity of all samples was less than 2%. The composite containing an equal weight percentage (2.5% CDA and 2.5% SiC) of reinforcement exhibits a 32.72% increase in hardness and a 46.48% increase in tensile strength compared to the as-cast alloy. The FESEM analysis of tensile fractured surfaces revealed the presence of ductile dimples, river lines, cleavage features, particle cracks, and pull-out fractures indicating different mode of fractures. The study demonstrates that the Al7075-CDA/SiC hybrid composite offers superior mechanical performance compared to conventional Al7075, making it a promising material for applications in automobile piston, brake caliper and wheels.
The growing demand for lightweight, high-performance materials in the automotive, aerospace, construction, and energy sectors has increased interest in 6000 series aluminum alloys. These alloys, primarily composed of magnesium (Mg) 
 The growing demand for lightweight, high-performance materials in the automotive, aerospace, construction, and energy sectors has increased interest in 6000 series aluminum alloys. These alloys, primarily composed of magnesium (Mg) and silicon (Si), exhibit a balanced combination of mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, thermal conductivity, and good formability. This literature review aims to critically examine the influence of alloying elements, especially Mg, Si, Cu, Mn, and Fe on the mechanical properties and electrical conductivity of these alloys. To achieve this, peer-reviewed scientific articles published between 2007 and 2025 were selected from major databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Qualis-CAPES. Studies were included based on criteria such as experimental clarity, advanced microstructural characterization, and analysis of precipitation and processing effects. The review shows that small variations in chemical composition significantly affect the types, morphology, and distribution of precipitates, which in turn influence yield strength, ductility, and electrical resistivity. Furthermore, it highlights the effects of heat treatments (T4 and T6), thermomechanical processing (rolling, extrusion, Friction Stir Processing (FSP)), and solid solubility on microstructure and final performance. The technical and environmental viability of using recycled aluminum is also discussed, emphasizing the importance of controlling residual elements such as iron and manganese. The findings reinforce that a deep understanding of the structure–property relationship is essential to optimize these alloys for modern engineering applications. This integrated review serves as a reference for developing advanced materials that meet both performance and sustainability criteria in competitive industrial environments.
The influence of multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) reinforcements on electrochemical corrosion investigations at varying NaCl concentrations (0.4 M, 0.6 M, 0.8 M, 1 M) of Mg-Zn-Ce nanocomposites is studied in 
 The influence of multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) reinforcements on electrochemical corrosion investigations at varying NaCl concentrations (0.4 M, 0.6 M, 0.8 M, 1 M) of Mg-Zn-Ce nanocomposites is studied in this work. The Mg-Zn-Ce/MWCNT nanocomposites were developed by using an ultrasonication-assisted hybrid stir–squeeze (UHSS) casting method with different MWCNT concentrations (0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.2 wt.%) in a Mg-Zn-Ce magnesium alloy matrix. The microstructural characterizations shown using X-ray diffraction revealed the presence of secondary phases (MgZn2, Mg12Ce), T-phase (Mg7Zn3RE), α-Mg, and MWCNT peaks. Optical microscopy results showed grain refinement in the case of nanocomposites. Transmission electron microscope studies revealed well-dispersed MWCNT, indicating the good selection of processing parameters. The uniform dispersion of MWCNTs was achieved due to a hybrid stirring mechanism along with transient cavitation, ultrasonic streaming, and squeeze effect. The higher Ecorr value of −1.39 V, lower Icorr value (5.81 ”A/cm2), and lower corrosion rate of 0.1 mm/Yr (↑77%) were obtained by 0.8% nanocomposite at 0.4 M NaCl concentration, when compared to the monolithic alloy. The Mg(OH)2 passive film formation on 0.8 wt.% nanocomposite was denser, attributed to the refined grains. At higher NaCl concentration, the one-dimensional morphological advantage of MWCNT helped to act as a barrier for further Mg exposure to excessive Cl− attack, which reduced the formation of MgCl2. Therefore, the UHSS-casted Mg-Zn-Ce/MWCNT nanocomposites present a good potential as sacrificial anodes for use in a wide range of industrial applications.