Description
In this paper the tensile deformation and fracture characteristics of aluminum alloy 2009 discontinuously reinforced with silicon carbide particulates (Sic_p) is presented and discussed. The increased strength of the Al/SiC, composite is ascribed to the synergistic influences of residual stresses generated due to intrinsic differences in thermal expansion coefficients between the composite constituents, strengthening from constrained plastic flow and triaxiality in the ductile aluminum alloy metal matrix due to the presence of ceramic particle reinforcements. Fracture on a microscopic scale comprised of cracking of the individual and clusters of Sic particles present in the microstructure. Particle cracking increased at the higher test temperature. Final fracture of the composite resulted from crack propagation through the matrix between particle clusters. The key mechanisms governing the tensile fracture process are elucidated.