Characterization of Reinforcement Distribution in Cast Al-Alloy/SiCp Composites

The distribution of reinforcement in 10% SiC and 20% SiCp reinforced A356 alloy processed by gravity casting, squeeze casting, and roll casting is studied by using the mean free path, nearest neighbor distance, radial distribution function, and quadrat methods. The study is performed by using computer image analysis methods in an automated procedure to prevent operator errors, improve sample size, and minimize analysis time. From the methods used to characterize the SiCp distributions, the quadrat method and radial distribution function are found to be more effective in detecting pronounced changes in the metal-matrix composite (MMC) microstructure through appropriate parameters, whereas the mean free path is characteristic of the particular MMC system rather than process specific. Furthermore, the nearest neighbor distance is of little use in studying cast MMCs, because it is affected by local clusters of a few SiC particles commonly found in cast MMCs, thus failing to characterize the macroscopic arrangement of reinforcement. Quantitative methods present themselves as a useful tool for quality control in MMC fabrication and can be used to correlate particle distribution and properties of MMC systems.