Comparison of the Energy Absorption of Closed-Cell Aluminum Foam Produced by Various Foaming Agents

This work investigates the effect of two different foaming materials on the energy absorption of closed-cell aluminum structures. For this purpose, two different cellular aluminum samples were prepared by incorporating TiH₂ and CaCO₃ as foaming agents into molten A356 aluminum alloy at 700°C. The SEM observation of the foam samples revealed that the cell structure of the foam produced with CaCO₃ is comprised of a smaller and more uniform structure than the sample produced with TiH₂. Uniaxial compressive tests were performed on the foam samples to evaluate the mechanical properties of closed-cell aluminum foams. The results indicated that in a 50% strain, the energy absorption of aluminum foam with calcium carbonate is about 100% more than a closed-cell structure, which has been foamed with titanium hydride.