A Thorough Study: In-Situ Aluminium LM6 Metal Matrix Composites Reinforced with Iron Oxide and MWCNTs

This paper aims on synthesis and characterization of Aluminium LM6 composites, discontinuously reinforced with iron oxide (γ-Fe2O3) particles and MWCNTs under different compositions using stir casting method. An investigation of carried out to determine physical, mechanical and electromagnetic properties of LM6 composites. Alumina particles were produced in-situ by reaction with iron oxide reduced by aluminium. Morphological studies were carried out to reveal the surface morphology and chemical composition of the prepared sample. EMI shielding effectiveness was measured using transmission line waveguide technique in the X-band. Observations yield that the presence of iron oxide particles and MWCNTs in Aluminium matrix affects EMI shielding property of the composite in X-band (8-12 GHz) frequency range. The reflection and absorption coefficients have shown reflection dominated electromagnetic energy attenuation of the composite samples, which was tailored by incorporation of iron oxide and MWCNTs. Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA) technique was performed for uniform ramp and purging rates to analyse the thermal stabilities of composites. The hardness, impact strength and wear rate of both composites increases while the compression strength was compromised. Furthermore, incorporating MWCNT along with iron oxide had reducing effect on the density of composite. The effect of dispersants on the distribution of reinforcements and the controlled distribution of MWCNT is further to more research and discussion.