Mechanical characteristics of stir-cast Irvingia wombolu reinforced Al-4wt%Cu composite

Abstract: Irvingia wombolu shell particulates are not commonly used as reinforcing materials in aluminium composites, which makes this research novel and interesting. Investigating their potential as reinforcement can offer new insights into sustainable and cost-effective composite materials. In this experimental study, the microstructure, tensile strength, hardness, and impact energy of Irvingia wombolu reinforced Al-4wt%Cu composites were investigated. The Al-4wt%Cu composites containing 2, 5, 8, 11, and 14wt% IWSp were fabricated using the stir-casting technique. The microstructure of the developed composites was analyzed using optical microscope. The OM results revealed even dispersion of IWSp in the Al matrix, leading to increase in the ultimate tensile strength, hardness, and impact energy of the Al-4wt%Cu matrix, with maximum values of 152 MPa, 257 HV, and 58 J obtained at 8wt%, 14wt%, and 5wt% IWSp, respectively. Incorporation of IWSp above 8wt% led to a sudden decrease in ultimate tensile strength due to excess of hard IWSp in the Al matrix. The alloy matrix recorded a better percentage elongation value compared with the composite samples. The study concludes that IWSp has the potential to serve as an alternative reinforcing material for Al-4wt%Cu composites.

Keywords: Al-Cu; microstructure; impact energy; strength; Irvingia wombolu.

Title: Mechanical characteristics of stir-cast Irvingia wombolu reinforced Al-4wt%Cu composite

Author: Kingsley C. Nnakwo, Jerome U. Odo, Agatha I. Ijomah

International Journal of Novel Research in Civil Structural and Earth Sciences

ISSN 2394-7357

Vol. 10, Issue 3, September 2023 - December 2023

Page No: 1-7

Novelty Journals

Website: www.noveltyjournals.com

Published Date: 14-September-2023

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8344944

Paper Download Link (Source)

https://www.noveltyjournals.com/upload/paper/Mechanical%20characteristics-14092023-7.pdf