The Cu alloying effect on the microstructure and tensile properties of an Al-Y2O3 composite

The Al-10Y2O3 (AYO#) and Al-10Y2O3-1.6Cu (AYOC#) composites were fabricated, and the microstructure and tensile performance at various temperatures were studied. AlYO3 and Al3Y are in-situ formed in the AYO#, whereas Al3Y transforms to finer Al 8.8 Cu 2.2 Y 3 particles in the AYOC#. The room-temperature ultimate tensile strength of the AYO# is increased by 24.9 % with Cu addition. However, the strength of the AYO# and AYOC# at 250 degrees C and 350 degrees C exhibits no obvious differences, which is regarded due to the offset of the negative effect of Cu enrichment at the AlYO3/Al interface and the positive strengthening effect of finer Al 8.8 Cu 2.2 Y 3 .