Preparation of SiCp/Al Functionally Gradient Composites

In this study, functionally gradient aluminum reinforced by Silicon carbide particles (FGMSiCp/Al) composites are prepared by microwave sintering and pressureless sintering processing. The sintering behaviors, mechanical properties of composites were measured, and microstructure was observed by optical microscope and SEM. The results showed that the density of sintered samples which prepared by microwave sintering were better than that presureless sintering one. The highest density of sintered sample by microwave sintering reached 2.64 g/cm3, the relative density was 95.65%. Whatever preparing process, the mechanical properties of sintered samples were related to the temperature. The distribution of silicon carbide particles is uniform in the aluminum matrix, however, slight agglomeration can be observed. The interface between other layers is not obvious except interface between Al and 5% SiC/Al layer.