Microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion behaviour of Al–Si–Mg alloy matrix/zircon and alumina hybrid composite

In the present study, the effect of reinforcement on microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion behaviour of aluminium–silicon–magnesium (Al–Si–Mg) alloy matrix hybrid composites reinforced with varying amounts of zircon and alumina has been investigated. Hardness and room temperature compressive tests were performed on Al–Si–Mg alloy as well as composites. Hardness and compressive strength was found to be higher for composites containing 3.75 % ZrSiO₄ + 11.25 % Al₂O₃. Similarly, Al–Si–Mg alloy and its composites were studied for corrosion behaviour in 1 N HCl corrosive media. The weight loss of all the composites was found to decrease with time due to the formation of passive oxide layer on the sample surface. The results obtained indicate that composites exhibit superior mechanical properties and corrosion resistance compared to unreinforced alloy.