Nanostructure Particle-Reinforced Transient Liquid Phase Diffusion Bonding: a Comparative Study

Particle-reinforced aluminum–metal matrix composites (Al-MMCs) are used in many engineering applications, because they provide significant advantages when compared to monolithic aluminum alloys. However, there still exists the need to identify a suitable joining process for these materials, which minimizes particulate disruption and retains the strength of the MMC within the joint region. This study presents a comparison between joint qualities achieved when a monolithic interlayer is used vs when a nanoparticle-reinforced composite interlayer is used during transient liquid phase diffusion bonding of Al-6061 alloy containing 15 vol pct of Al2O3 particles. Examination of the joint region using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed the formation of eutectic phases such as Al3Ni, Al9FeNi, and Ni3Si within the joint zone. The results indicate that the addition of nanoparticle reinforcements into the interlayer can be used to improve joint strength and minimize particle segregation.