Microstructure and mechanical characterization of aa6061/tic in situ aluminium matrix composites synthesized by in situ reaction of silicon carbide and potassium fluotitanate

Abstract: In situ method of synthesizing aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) has been widely recognized and followed by researchers due to numerous merits over conventional stir casting. Aluminum alloy AA6061 reinforced with various amounts (0, 2.5 and 5 wt. %) of TiC particles were synthesized by the in situ reaction of inorganic salt K2TiF6 and ceramic particle SiC with molten aluminum. The casting was carried out at an elevated temperature and held for a longer duration to decompose SiC to release carbon atoms. X-ray diffraction patterns of the prepared AMCs clearly revealed the formation of TiC particles without the occurrence of any other intermetallic compounds. The microstructure of the prepared AA6061/TiC AMCs was studied using field emission scanning electron microscope