Influence of sawdust ash on the microstructural and physicomechanical properties of stir-cast Al6063/SDA matrix composite

Mechanical, physical, and corrosion properties of pure aluminum cannot meet the requirements of the modern industries. This has led to increase in demand for aluminum alloys and aluminum matrix composites with enhanced properties. These properties make them suitable for most applications. This article analyzes the physicomechanical and microstructural properties of stir cast Al6063 alloy matrix reinforced with different weight fractions (2, 4, and 6 wt.%) of sawdust ash (SDA). The density, porosity, hardness, tensile strength, and impact strength of the unreinforced alloy and developed composite samples were evaluated while microstructural analysis was also carried out. The results showed reduced density values with increased SDA contents while percentage porosity ranged between 1.56 and 2.23%. The hardness (88.3-106.93 BHN) and tensile strength (112.13-132.71 MPa) of the composites were 21.09% and 18.35% better than those of Al6063 alloy. However, the impact strengths (45.48-35.51 J) of the composites were lower when compared to the unreinforced Al6063 alloy with a reduction of 21.92%. Microstructural images showed evenly distributed reinforcement particles within the matrix, while the XRD analysis also revealed the presence of different intermetallic phases in the composite samples. The micrographs of the composites showed plastic deformation during straining. The findings from the study indicate that SDA particulates incorporated into alloy matrix influenced the properties with increased hardness and tensile strength and reduced impact strength. Hence, the aluminum matrix composites will be suitable for use in lightweight engineering applications.