Effects of Strain Rate on Compressive Properties in Bimodal 7075 Al–SiC_p Composite

A 7075 Al alloy matrix composite reinforced with SiC particulates (SiC_ps) whose sizes were 10 and 30 μm, i.e., a bimodal Al–SiC_p composite, was made by a liquid pressing process, and its quasi-static and dynamic compressive properties were evaluated by using a universal testing machine and a split Hopkinson pressure bar, respectively. Mg–Si-, Al–Fe-, and Cu-rich intermetallic compounds existed inside the Al matrix, but might not deteriorate compressive properties because of their low volume fraction (about 2.6%) which was much lower than that of SiC_p. The dynamic compressive strength was higher than the quasi-static strength, and was higher in the specimen tested at 2800 s⁻¹ than in the specimen tested at 1400 s⁻¹ according to the strain-rate hardening. For explaining the strain data, the blocking extent of crack propagation by the Al matrix was quantitatively examined. The melting of Al matrix occurred by adiabatic heating was favorable for the improvement in compressive strain because it favorably worked for activating the shear band formation and for blocking the crack propagation, thereby leading to the excellent compressive strain (10.9–11.6%) as well as maximum compressive strength (1057–1147 MPa). Thus, the present bimodal 7075 Al–SiC_p composite provides a promise for new applications to high-performance armor plates.